
•• ^ a*° *^w> > J »• ^ 




.4' 



o V 






^ 







<0 f s s... ^. 





^ 






A* 



^V 



JL V* 



*£ r ° " 













>•* 






+ > V 

I**- ***** 

' ,0* **b 





■AT •*■'•-» ^ (V o " » 





o 
,4 o. 









'\ 




C v 



^ 






^0 







o 1 













4 o 



G 






19 1 > 



iPx* 



XHiL 



sasoiBEiUfai&ff 



OF THE 



CITY OF NEW-YORK: 

CONTAINING 



TTS POPULATION, INSTITUTIONS. COMMERCE, MANUFACTURES - 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS COURTS OP JUSTICE, 

PLACES OP AMUSEMENT, &C. 



1?© WHICH 13 3?21SFIX£B, 



A BRIEF ACCOUNT OF ITS rtRST SETTLEMENT »«" THE DUTCH, fW THEYeAP. 

1629; AND OP THK MOST KEJlARKABT i- EVENTS <*UICH HATE 0C< 

CPRRED IN . ISTORY, FROM THAT TO THE PRESENT PERIOD. 



BY JAMES HARDIE, A. M. 



TJCeto^orft : 



VWNTEB ANT) PUBLISHED BY SAMUEL MABKir. 

63 VESEY-STREET. 



I827> 







Southern District of New-York, ss. 

f c Be it remembered, that on the 20th day oi June, A. D. 1827, 
in the 51st year of the Independence of the United States oi 
America, Samuel Marks, of the said district, hath deposited in this 
office the title of a Book, the right whereof he claims as proprietor, in the 
words following, to wit: "The Description of the City of New-York; 
Containing its population, institutions, commerce, manufactures, p" 1 : 
lie buildings, courts of justice, places of amusement, &c. To which 
is prefixed, a brief account of its first settlement by the Dutch, in the 
year 1629 ; and of the most remarkable events, which have occurred in 
its history, from that to the present period. By James Hardie, A. M. 
In conformity to the Act of Congress of the United States, entitled " An 
Act for the encouragement of Learning, by securing the copies of Maps, 
Charts, and Books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies dur- 
ing the time therein mentioned" And also to an Act, entitled "An 
Act, supplementary to an Act, entitled an Act for the encouragement 
of Learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts, and Books, to the 
authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mention- 
ed, and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of desi°nin°-, en^ra 
i»g and etching historical and other prints." 

FRED. I. BETTo. 
Clerk of the Southern District of New-York. 



TABZmOT COKTE3MT3 



PART I. 



HISTORY OF NEW-YORK. 



Page 



Chapter I. Of the Discovery of America, by Christo- 
)her Columbus, on the 12th of October, 1492. 

Chapter II. From the Discovery of America by 

olumbus, t© the settlement of. Fort Amsterdam, (now 
^ew-York,) by the Dutch, in the year 1629. . . 14 

Chapter III. From the possession of the colony by 
he Dutch, to its surrender to the British, under the com- 
nand of Colonel Richard NichoJs, in the year 1664. . lG 

Chapter IV. From the surrender of the province to 
he English, in 1664, to th? accession of King William 
md Queen Mary to the throne in 1688 . . .22 

Chapter V. From the accession of William and Mary, 
;o the arrival of Govenor Burnet, in the year 1720. . 28 

Chapter VI. From the ariiva! of Govenor. Burnet^ 
[ill il:e Negro Plot, in^the year, 1739. . . ...... 41 

Chapter VII. From the Negro Plot, to the arrival of 
Sir Charles Hardie, as Govenor, in 1755. . . .49 

Chapter VIII. From the arrival of Sir Charles Har- 
dy, to the Declaration of Independence, 4th July, 1776. 65 

Chapter IX. From the Declaration of Independence, 
to the evacuation of the City by the British, 25th of No- 
vember, 1783. . . "_ "„ , . ;'. . .82 

Chapter X. From the evacuation of the City, till 
the first meeting of Congress, under the New Constitution, 
4th March, 1789 107 

Chapter XI. From the organization of the New Con- 
stitution, to the procession in honour of the completion of 
the Grand Canal, 4th November, 1825. . . .120 

Chapter XII. A short account of the rise, progress, 
and completion of the Great Canal, and of the grand 
Celebration, which took place in this city, on that aus- 
picious occasion. , 13. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 

PART II. 



DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY OF NEW-YORK. 

Page. 
Chapter I. Situation, Extent, Boundaries, local ad- 
antages, &c. . . . . . . . .145 

Chapter II. Abstract of the Census of the city and 
county of New- York, taken in the year 1 825, by authori- 
ty of the state. . 154 

Chapter III. A list of the places of public worship in 
this city, alphabetically arranged. .... l6l 

Chapter IF. Public Markets 182 

Chapter V. Public Prisons. . . . .188 

Chapter VI. A list of all the streets, lanes, allies, &c. 

in the city. 206 

Chapter VII. Literary and Scientific Institutions. . 218 
Chapter VIII. Medical Institutions. . . . 256 

Chapter IX.. Benevolent, Charitable and Friendly 
Institutions. , . . . ... . . 286 

Chapter X. Societies for the Dissemination of the 
Christian Religion. ....... 295 

Chapter XL Government of the City. . . . 301 

Chapter XII. Trade, Commerce, and Manufactures. 308 

Chapter XIII. Public Amusements, . . . 32£ 

Vppendix, . . . , . . „ , , 34" 



PREFACE. 



When the Author, (Mr Hardie), issued his Prospectus ioi 
this work, in August, 1825, public expectation was considera- 
bly excited ; as he was well known to be competent to the 
task he had undertaken ; and had he lived to finish it, there 
is no doubt that the most sanguine anticipations would have 
been realized. But his course was arrested by the hand of 
death, and, after more than a year's delay, the completion of 
the work devolved on another, and a less experienced hand. 

As regards the author's original design and intentions, they 
are fully developed in the following extracts from his prospec- 
tus : 

" With respect to the work, in which I am now employed, 
it is my design, as far as it may be in my power, to render it 

a COMPLETE STATISTICAL VIEW OF THE CITY OF NKW-yORK. 

In my proposals, I have promised much ; but if it shall please 
God to preserve my health,, 1 shall faithfully perform every 
thing, which I have promised. I shall farther observe, that, 
in the prosecution of the work, I shall add such other inter- 
esting matter, as may either occur to myself, or be suggested 
by my learned and judicious friends, whose countenance in 
this arduous undertaking I most earnestly solicit, and on whose 
assistance I greatly depend. 

"I am well aware, that the undertaking will be attended 
with great labour; for though it is easy to write works of fan- 
cy, there is nothing more difficult and tedious than to ascer- 
tain facts. It will, likewise, be attended with considerable 
expense. But I have counted the cost. I have had the sub- 
ject under consideration for several years; but more particu- 
larly since April last, when I published a pamphlet, entitled 
" A cencus of the new buildings erected in this city, in the 
year 1824, &c. Also a number of statistical documents, in- 
teresting to the Christian, the Merchant, the man of inquiry 
and the public in general." As this little work was honoured 
with uncommon patronage, I propose, early in the ensuing 
year, to publish a new edition, with material improvements. 
I likewise determined to publish " a description op the 
city of new-york," upon an extensive scale, similar to that 



PREFACE. 

>i The "Picture of London, The History of Edinburgh, The 
Tableau de Paris, The Oxford Guide, and other statistical 
accounts of the most celebrated cities in Europe. To this 
important work, my unceasing exertions shall be directed, 
till it shall be brought to a conclusion, and I shall proceed 
with pleasure, in full confluence that I shall receive from a 
generous public, an adequate compensation for my endeavours 
to serve them." 

Such were our friend's intentions, But, alas! it pleased the 
All-wise disposer of events to remove him from this sublunary 
state of existence, in the midst of this career of usefulness. 
He died without leaving any instruction or materials for the 
direction of his successor. The writer of this article has how- 
ever, done the best he could, under existing circumstances; 
and begs leave to assure the reader, that if the work prove in- 
ferior to his expectations, the fault must be attributed solely 
to lack of ability and information in the 

FINISHER, 
New-York, July, 1827. 



THE 

DESCRIPTION 



OF THE 



CITY OF NEW-YORK. 



EILELT X. 



CHAPTER I. 

Of the Discovery of America, by Christopher Columbus, on 
the 12th of October, 1492. 

It has been asserted, although as I believe, with very 
little reason, that America was known to the ancients. Ac- 
cording to some traditions it had, at a very early period, 
been visited by the Greenlanders, the Norwegians and the 
Welsh. Of this, however, we have no evidence in history. 
But if it were really true, the knowledge, which they had 
obtained concerning the existence of what is now emphati- 
cally called " The New World" was of no benefit either to 
themselves or others. t was in fact, like " a candle put un- 
der a bushel or in a secret place ;" for it gave no light On 
the whole, it appears more than probable, that the Euro- 
peans neither knew, nor had even thought qf the existence 
of the continent which we now inhabit, till the days of Chris- 
topher Columbus, of whose life as well as some of the par- 
ticular circumstances, which induced him to conceive the 
possibility of this important discovery, I now proceed to give 
a brief account. 

Christopher Columbus or Colon, as he has been some- 
times called, was born in the republic of Genoa, in 1447. 
From a letter, which he addressed, a. d. 1501, to Ferdinand 
and Isabella, the king and queen of Spain, it appears, that 
he had then been engaged in a maritime life for nearly four* 

A 



2 DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 

teen years, and that he had followed the sea from the time 
that he had attained the fourteenth year of his age. 

His ancestors had, for several generations, followed a sea- 
faring life, from which, however, they had derived no great 
emolument, as the parents of our navigator appear to have 
been in limited circumstances, s at the time of his birth. They 
were able, however, to give him uch an education, as fitted 
him for the profession, in which, after the example of his fore- 
fathers, he was about to engage. Besides the more necessary 
branches, he was instructed in geometry, geography, astron- 
omy, in the art of drawing, and in short, in every thing, which 
was, at that time, deemed requisite to form a skilful and suc- 
cessful adventurer on the seas. 

Columbus was not one of those, whose abilities remain con- 
cealed till late in life and who, after a youth spent in indo'ence 
or dissipation, have awakened at a more mature age, in all 
the vigour and activity of genius. Having chosen his pro- 
fession, he hastened to qualify himself for the honourable dis- 
charge of its duties, and as I have already stated, he com- 
menced his nautical career, at the age of fourteen. He made 
his first voyages in merchant vessels, which traded to diffe- 
rent parts of t!r j Mediterranean; but the ardour of his mind 
was not to be repressed ; a prouder career and a higher des- 
tiny awaited him. He had only attained his twentieth year, 
when he undertook a voyage of discovery, the principal ob- 
ject of which appears to have been to ascertain, whether 
the frigid zone was habitable. He accordingly stretched into 
the northern sea, and passing the limit of former enterprises, 
pushed into the ocean, which lies beyond the Arctic circle. 
" In February 1767?" says he, in a memorandum upon the 
subject, " I sailed 100 leagues beyond Iceland, the northern 
part of which is J3° North latitude and not 63 c as some 
snnnosed. When I was there, the sea was not frozen ; but the 
tides were so great, that, in some places, they rose and fell 
about 45 feet. I have, likewise, been in the Portuguese fort 
of St. George del Mina, and can witness, that it is not unin- 
habited, as some have supposed. " Thus, he, at once, put 
an end to the absurd opinion entertained by Ovid and other 
ancient writers, viz. that out of the five zones, the torrid or 
burning zone was uninhabitable, by reason of its excessive 
heat, that the two frigid or frozen zones, were so extremely 
cold as to render it impossible to live within their boundaries 
and that the only parts of the globe, which were fit for the res- 
idence of the human species were comprised within the bound- 
aries of the two temperate zones. In this voyage, Columbus 



DISCOVERY OP AMERICA. 3 

.idded little, or perhaps, nothing to his fortune ; but he de- 
rived from it a large share of nautical knowledge, which prob- 
ably paved the way to the very important discovery, which, 
under the blessing of Divine Providence, he was afterwards 
enabled to make. 

The next adventure of Columbus was of a kind somewhat 
different. He entered into the service of a relation, viz. Co- 
lumbus junior as he is called, a famous Genoese sea captain, 
who, at his own expense, had fitted out a small squadron, 
with which he carried on a piratical warfare against the Vene- 
tians and Turks, who were then the enemies of his country. 
In this service, Columbus established his character, not onl} 
for skill in naval affairs, but also for courage. On one ha- 
zardous occasion, in particular, he escaped with difficulty. 
Having attacked, along with the rest of the flotilla, under the 
command of his relation, some Venetian galleys, which were 
returning richly laden, from the coast of Flanders, he grappled 
with one of the enemy's vessels and, in this situation, the ship, 
in which he served, unfortunately took fire. All, in a mo- 
ment, was terrour and confusion. But Columbus, distinguish- 
ed no less by his presence of mind, than by his bravery in 
action, threw himself into the sea and partly by swimming 
and partly by the use of an oar, got safe to land. This en- 
gagement took place not far from Lisbon, and the distance be- 
tween the vessel and the shore is said to have been more than 
two leagues. To Columbus himself, as well as to those, who 
were acquainted with the circumstance, this miraculous pre- 
servation must have conveyed the idea, that he was destined 
by Divine Providence, for some very important benefit to the 
world. Thus when the Immortal Washington, after Brad- 
dock's defeat, covered the r- treat and saved the wreck of the 
routed army, it was predicted by many and it is not improba- 
ble, he had a presentiment of it himself, that the time would 
come, when he would be hailed as he deliverer of his coun- 
try. 

But to return to our navigator He then quit the service ot 
<iis relation and made Lisbon the place of his abode, where 
the encouragement, by Henry then king of Portugal, to even 
one skilled in navigation, and animated by the love of discov- 
ery was exceedingly great. Columbus had not been here long, 
before he married a lady of the name of Perestrello ; but this 
circumstance did not detach him from his maritime pursuits, 
nor abate his desire of honourable fame. The lady, whom he 
married, was the daughter of Peter Monez Perestrello, a cele- 
brated mariner, who, under the patronage of king Henry, had 



4 DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 

discovered the islands of Puerto Sancto and Madeira. By 
means of his wife, he got possession of the journals, charts 
and other papers, which had belonged to her father, and from 
these he easily learned, the object, which the Portuguese had 
in view, in prosecuting their voyages towards the South. — 
This was nothing else than to discover a passage to the East 
Indies, and it was proposed to reach those distant parts, by 
doubling the most southern cape of Africa. 

After he had made himself acquainted with these particu- 
lars, the idea of finding a shorter and safer passage to the East 
Indies, appears gradually to have occurred to his mind. In 
the discovery of the New World, little or, perhaps, nothing 
is to be ascribed to accident. It was the result of diligent 
inquiry and profound and patient investigation. Like our in- 
comparable Fulton, who brought the steam boat system to 
a much greater degree of perfection than could have been rea- 
sonably imagined, he had, before he could accomplish his ob- 
ject, to encounter difficulties, which except to those few y who 
are endowed with uncommon talents and unremitting perse- 
verance would have been insurmountable. Not, therefore, 
by chance, as it is commonly called ; but by the proper use 
of those intellectual faculties, which God had given them, they 
both brought the designs, which they had in view to a favour- 
able issue. It is greatly to be lamented, that neither of these 
eminent men, either himself or his descendants received a 
compensation, by any means, adequate to the very important 
services, which they rendered to the world ; but as long as 
the art of printing shall exist, the names of Christopher Co- 
lumbus and Robert Fulton will be recorded as two of 
the greatest benefactors to mankind, that ever existed. 

In the time of Columbus, the rotundity of the planet, which 
we inhabit was well known. He was, therefore, led to con- 
ceive, that, in order that the terraqueous globe might be pro- 
perly balanced, and the lands and seas proportioned to each 
other, another continent was necessary, and drew this conclu- 
sion, that the East Indies might be visited by sailing in a 
westerly course ; and moreover, that that country would be 
found to lie within a distance, by no means considerable from 
the Canary Islands. 

As early as the year 1474, he became more firmly establish- 
ed in his opinion, by the communications, which he had with 
Paul, an eminent physician of Florence. This celebrated 
philosopher stated several facts, in confirmation of the scheme, 
suggested by Columbus, pointed out the course of sailing on 
a chart ; urged him strongly to secure the proper means of ex-s 



DISCOVERY OP AMERICA, O 

ecuting his purpose and concluded by saying, "that the voy- 
age laid down was no* only possible, bu< true, certain, hon- 
ourable, advantageous and most glorious to christians." The 
accuracy of the physician's prediction, with respect to the 
success of the enterprise has been fully verified by the result ; 
but alas ! we have yet to learn, that the discovery of America 
1ms been conducive to the glory of the Christian cause. 

The next step of Columbus was to engage some of the Eu- 
ropean powers in the accomplishment of his object. But 
none of the rulers of that continent had sufficient reach of 
thought to comprehend his schemes, or sufficient generosity to 
afford him the necessary encouragement. By many, he was 
considered as a visionary projector. He was rejected by 
those called the great; because he was a man of low con- 
dition and by the learned, who were mortified to learn, that 
an obscure pilot had found ou that, which had escaped the 
discernment of more cultivated minds. He applied to the se- 
nate of Genoa, making his native country the first tender of his 
services; but that body repelled him with scorn, b ing satisfied 
with receiving the productions of India, by the manner, in 
which they were then brought to their hands. Repulsed by 
the Genoese, he made his sci erne known to John II, king of 
Portugal, who received him graciously ; but referred his pro- 
ject to a number of pretended cosmographers, whom he was 
accust med to consult in matters of this kind : but these ob- 
jected to his design, with every argument which their igno- 
rance or ingenuity couid supply. T» this treatment, they 
likewise endeavoured to add the most shameful treachery by 
which if it had succeeded, he would have lost the honour of 
being considered as the discoverer of the New World. They 
started many objections and asked a number of ensnaring 
questions, on purpose to betray him into a full explanation o! 
his system. Having obtained his answers, they basely ad- 
vised the king to despatch a vessel privately to attempt the pro- 
posed discovery, by following the course, which he had point- 
ed out. King John regardless of honour or common hones- 
ty, meanly adopted th< ir perfidious counsel. Columbus, upon 
discovering this shameful transaction, with an indignation 
natural to an ingenuous mind, left the kingdom and arrived in 
Spain, in the year 1484. 

Here he presented his scheme in person to Ferdinand and 
fsabella, who then governed the united kingdom of Castile and 
Aragon. They injudiciously submitted it to the examination 
of unskilful judges, who very gravely determined, "that it is 
presumptuous in any person to suppose, that he alone pos- 

A 2 



(3 DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 

sesses knowledge superiour to all the rest of mankind united. 1 * 
They, likewise, maintained, that if any such countries existed 
as those, which Columbus pretended, they would not have 
remained so long concealed ; nor would the wisdom of former 
ages, have left the glory of such a discovery to an obscure 
Genoese pilot. 

Finding himself baffled in all his endeavours to accomplish 
his object, he now directed his attention to King Henry VII 
of England. To him he sent his brother Bartholomew, who 
was perfectly acquainted with his views and to whom he 
gave full authority to enter into such agreement with that 
prince as to him might seem proper. But, in his voyage to 
that country, it unfortunately happened, that he was captured 
by pirates, who stripped him of every thing that he possessed 
and detained him as a prisoner, for several years. At leng!h, 
he arrived at London in extreme indigence, and presented 
himself to the king, as soon as he was able to make a decent 
appearance. The proposals of Columbus ^vere received with 
more approbation by Henry, than by any other potentate, 
to whom they had been submitted ; but nothing effectual was 
done. Thus all his applications were, heretofore, unsuccess- 
ful ; objections were ever s where raised and difficulties exhib- 
ited ; the refusal of one monarch was urged as a reason for a 
similar conduct on the part of another ; and had not the per- 
severance of Columbus been equal to his genius, the conti- 
nent of America might have still been unknown to the inhab- 
itants of the Old World. 

But the time was now at hand, when brighter prospects 
were about to oen. The Moors had been driven from Spain 
and Ferdinand and Isabella, the sovereigns of that country, 
had leisure for attending to objects, which owing to the distract- 
ed state of th nation, had, for several years been, in a great 
measure, neglected. Columbus disappointed, but not mov- 
ed from his purpose was, at thi time, preparing to set out for 
England, in order that, if possible, he might finish the nego- 
ciation, which had been commenced with King Henry, by 
his brother. By the orders of Isabella, he was desired, to 
relinquish his intention o r soliciting the patronage of foreign 
courts and invited into her presence with every mark of re- 
spect. At the interview, which, soon after, took place, he 
relaxed in nothing of what he had originally proposed. The 
conditions, oh which he declared himself willing to undertake 
the expedition were still the same, viz. that he should be ap- 
pointed admiral of all the seas, which he might explore and 
governor of all the continents and islands, which he might di&- 



DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 7 

cover; that these offices should be hereditary in his family and 
" that the tenth of every thing bought, bartered, found or got, 
within the bounds of the admiralship, abating only the charge of 
the conquest," should be settled upon him and devolve to his 
heirs, in case of his death It was his desire, that a small 
squadron should be equipped and put under his command, and 
as a proof of his confidence of success, he offered to advance 
an eighth part of the money, which would be necessary for 
the purrhase of the ships, provided he were allowed a corres- 
ponding share of the advantage resulting from the enterprize. 
John Perez, the friend and confident of Columbus, confessor 
to the queen and an ecclesiastic of great influence was the per- 
son, to whom he was indebted for the interview with Isabella. 
By his representation and by those of Quintineila and Santan- 
gel, both officers of high standing, under the crown, a favour- 
able ear was, at last, lent to the propositions of our adventur- 
er. The}' stated to Isabella that he was a person of a sound 
and collected mind, of acknowledged integrity, and well in- 
formed in geography, history and navigation. They, like- 
wise, represented, in the strongest terms that the glory which 
would result from the success of the enterprize, would im- 
mortalize her reign, and that the christian faith would be 
thereby greatly extended, by its promulgation amongst the 
inhabitants of those countries which might be discovered. By 
the persuasion of these intelligent persons, Isabella resolved to 
patronize Columbus and to engage him in her service, on his 
own terms. Orders were issued, that a squadron should be 
fitted out from the port of Palos. It consisted of three vessels 5 
but as the art of ship-building was then in its infancy and dis- 
tant voyages were comparatively unknown, the largest was 
of very inconsiderable dimensions and the other two were not 
much larger than ordinary boats. They were victualled for 
twelve months and had ninety men on board. The whole 
expense of building and fitting out this little squadron amount- 
ed to no moreth n c£4000 sterling [$17,760), and however in- 
considerable this sum may appear at the present day, its 
greatness was the principal cau-e, which prevented the Span- 
ish government from acceding to the proposals of Columbus 
at a more early period. 

All things being ready, Columbus with those under his com- 
mand, went in solemn procession to a monastery, where the 
blessing of heaven was implored on the voyage which he was 
about to undertake. This was on the 3d of August, a. d. 1492, 
and early on the ensuing morning, he set sail from the harbour 
of Palos in the Santa Maria, the largest of the three vessels, 



S DISCOVERY OP AMERICA. 

which were destined for the undertaking. The two others 
were called the Pinta and the Nina. In six days after their 
departure, they arrived at the Canary islands, without having 
met with any occurrence worthy of notice except that the 
rudder of the Pinta broke loose, an accident, which the super- 
stition of the sailors interpreted as a very unfavourable 
omen. 

After refitting his vessels, Columbus left the Canaries, on 
the 6th of September and launched out into seas, which had 
heretofore been never entered, without a chart to direct him. 
or any knowledge of the tides and currents, which might tend 
to impede his progress. His seamen finding themselves pla- 
ced in a new and unprecedented situation became alarmed at 
the hazardous nature of the enterprize, beat their bieasts in 
dismay and relinquished all hopes of ever again seeing their 
country and their iriends 

But Columbus was peculiarly qualified to overcome diffi- 
culties of ihis kind. He wuspatient and persevering, master 
of himself and skilful in the government of others. In naval 
science and experience, he had no equal ; he placed very 
little dependence on others; and allowing himself only a very 
few hours for necessary repose, endeavoured to conduct ev- 
ery thing in the most proper manner, by his own presence 
and authority. His vessel moved rapidly before the trade 
wind, which constantly blows from the Eastward within the 
tropics ; but he judiciously concealed from his men the num- 
ber of leagues, which they had sailed. But no bad conse- 
quence resulted from this imposition ; for such was the igno- 
rance of his companions that none of them was able to detect 
it. About the 14th of September, they had g«t to the distance 
of nearly 200 leagues beyond the most Westerly of the Cana- 
ries, and here it was observed that the magnetic needle in- 
clined towards the West, from its direction to the polar star. 
and as they proceeded this variation continued to encrease. 
This was the occasion of serious alarm to Columbus himself 
and filled his associates with a terrour, by no means, unrea- 
sonable. They were far from land and far from the tract of 
other navigators ; all around them was uncertain ; and all be- 
fore them unknown ; while nature herself seemed to be de- 
parting from her steadiness and the only guide, on which 
they had formerly relied to point them to a safe retreat from 
an unbounded and trackless ocean, appeared to be no longer 
entitled to their confidence. With astonishing presence of 
mind, Columbus assigned a plausible reason which though it 
was, by no means, satisfactory to himself had the effect of 
silencing the murmurs of his crew. 



DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 9 

The alarm, however, to which the variation of the compass 
gave rise, was not the only difficulty which Columbus had to 
surmount. In a short time thereafter, the murmurs of his 
sailors broke out in greater violence, first among the ignorant 
and wavering, then among those, who were more adventur- 
ous and better informed, and at last extended with unpropitious 
influence throughout the fleet. The men blamed their sove-> 
reign for listening to the schemes of a chimerical adventurer 
and for endangering the lives of his subjects, in order to carry 
them into execution. The indications of land had all proved 
fallacious. They would, therefore, be deceived no longer and 
resolved, that Columbus should be forced to abandon an un- 
dertaking, which seemed evidently to threaten inevitable de- 
struction, and some of the more daring even talked of throwing 
him into the sea, as a merited punishment for his temerity. 

In the midst of this disaffection, Columbus appeared with 
a cheerful countenance, as if pleased with his enterprize 
and confident of its success. He soothed his companions and 
expostulated with them. He at one time, endeavoured to 
influence their desire of riches ; and, at ano er, their love 
of fame. He assumed a tone of authority and threatened 
them with the vengeance of their sovereign, as well as with 
everlasting infamy if they should abandon him in his under- 
taking. These encouragements and expostulations were not 
without their effects. But the fears of his sailors, at length, 
prevailed over all his remonstrances. They assembled tu- 
rn ultuously upon deck and both officers and men insisted on 
returning to Spain immediately. Under these circumstances. 
Columbus perceiving that opposition would be dangerous, so 
far yielded to their importunity, as to propose that they should 
continue the voyage for three days more, at which time, if 
no land should be discovered, he would immediately return. 
Notwithstanding the mutinous disposition of the sailors, this 
proposal did not appear to them unreasonable, and the com- 
mander hazarded very little in making it. The indi- 
cations of land seemed indubitable. The water had gradu- 
ally become more shallow ; flocks of strange birds were seen ; 
as well as weeds of a different kind from any, which they had 
hitherto observed. A staff curiously wrought had, likewise, 
been taken up by some of the crew belonging to the Pinta. 
A cane, which seemed to have been lately cut and a thorn with 
red fruit upon it were, likewise, found and a light, which 
was perceived at a distance, appeared to move as if carried 
from one place to another. These tokens were decisive and 
Columbus did not fail to use them in elevating the hopes ancl 



L tUSCOVERY OF AMERICA. 

diminishing the fears of his associates. On the morning of 
the 1 2th of October, an island appeared about 6 miles to the 
northward with verdant fields, covered with woods and diver- 
sified with rivulets, and the several crews immediately began 
the Te Deiwi as a hymn of thanksgiving to God for this highly 
important discovery. This act of devotion was followed by 
acknowledgments of disobedience towards their commander, 
and like those, who are suddenly moved by the vicissitudes of 
fortune, they passed from one extreme to another and looked 
up to the man, whom, a (ew days before, they had insulted, as 
one whom the Deity had endowed with penetration and per- 
severance, above the common lot of mortals. 

Columbus, richly dressed, with a drawn sword in his hand 
and the royal standard displayed, took possession of the is- 
land for the crown of Castile and Leon. The natives, who 
had assembled in great numbers on the first appearance of the 
ships, stood around their new guests, in speechless astonish- 
ment, utterly ignorant of what they were doing and unable to 
foresee the dreadful consequences, which would result to them 
from this unexpected visit, nor could they have entertained 
the most distant idea of the injustice, cruelty, bloodshed and 
slavery, which the unprotected inhabitants of the New World 
were destined to experience from these formidable strangers. 
The island, on which he had thus landed, was called by 
the natives Guanahani ; but Columbus gave it the name oi 
San Salvador, it is one of the Lucaya or Bahama islands and 
is situated about 3000 miles from Gomara, the most westerly of 
the Canaries and only four degrees to the South of it. He af- 
terwards touched at many of the islands, which lie in the 
neighbourhood of the Bahamas, enquiring every where for 
gold, which he thought was the o ly object of commerce wor- 
thy of his at 1 ntion In steering to the Southward, he discov- 
ered the islands of Cuba and Hispaniola, which were inhabited 
by a humane aud hospitable people and abounding in all the 
necessaries of life. 

During their return to their native country, the fleet was 
overtaken by a dreadful tempest, which threatened the most 
imminent danger to all on board and notwithstanding the 
great naval skill of Columbus, rendered it highly probable, 
that they would never reach their destined port. His mind 
was likewise, harrassed with a very rational fear, viz. that the 
knowledge of his discoveries should be for ever lost and that 
he should be handed down to posterity, as a bold, but vi- 
sionary projector, whose life had been thrown away, in the 
pursuit of unattainable objects. Under these impressions, he 



DISCOVERY OP AMERICA. II 

retired to his cabin, and wrote upon parchment a short ac- 
count of his voyage and of his success. This writing he seal- 
ed up and addressed to the King and Queen of Spain. He 
then put the parchment wrapt up in an oil cloth, carefully sur- 
rounded on all sides with wax, into a tight cask, which he 
threw into the sea in hopes, that some fortunate accident might 
preserve a deposit of so great importance to the world. Nor 
was he satisfied with one such packet. He immediately pre- 
pared another similar to the first and attached it to the poop 
of the vessel, that as he expressed it himself, when the ship 
sunk, the cask might float upon the water and take the chance 
of being found." Happily, however, the storm, at length 
abated and on the 15th March 1493, he arrived at Palos in 
Spain, from whence he had sailed about seven months be- 
fore. He was welcomed amidst the loud acclamations of the 
admiring multitude and received bv the court with every pos- 
sible mark of respect. 

In September 1493, he sailed upon his second voyage to 
America, during the performance of which he discovered the 
islands of Dominica, Marigalante, Guadaloupe, Antigua, Ja- 
maica and several others, and returned to Spain in 149*3. 

Columbus commenced his third voyage in the beginning 
of the year 1498, and on the first of August, discovered the con- 
tinent of America. He landed at different places, on the coast 
of Paria and Cumana and every where surveyed their beauty 
and fertility with rapturous pleasure and from thence crossed 
over to Hispaniola. 

It has been mentioned already that the commission, under 
which Columbus agreed to undertake the voyage of discovery, 
invested him with high powers and secured to him many im- 
portant privileges. These conditions were readily agreed to 
by Ferdinand and Isabella, while his scheme was matter of 
speculation; but no sooner was it ascertained, that he had dis- 
covered countries hitherto unknown and taken possession of 
them in the name of the Spanish monarchy, than it was per- 
ceived, that the commission was too ample and the powers 
and privileges too great. Such a commission had, however 
been granted and could not be openly or immediately revok- 
ed. Ferdinand was, in his temper, suspicious and peevish^ 
and his ear was unfortunately open to the insinuations of the 
enemies of Columbus. Less gold had been got from the new 
countries than the avaricious monarch had expected. Dis- 
turbances had, likewise, arisen In Hispaniola, and though they 
had been in a great measure quelled by the presence of Co- 
lumbus, still the very existence of these disturbances lessened, 



12 DISCOVERY OP AMERICA. 

in the mind of Ferdinand, the hope of undeviating prosperity, 
which he had heretofore universally entertained, and rende- 
red his temper still more fretful. Complaints of the misrule 
of Columbus were daily brought to him, and in a moment of 
irritation, the capricious monarch granted a commission to 
Francis de Bovadilla, empowering him to proceed to His- 
paniola, to enquire into the conduct of Columbus, and upon 
finding even any plausible, reason for a charge against him, 
to take upon himself the government of the island. The re- 
sult was just what might have been expected from so unjust 
a commission. Every sort of information, even from per- 
sons the most infamous was ,greedily received against the 
discoverer of the Western world, who was loaded with irons, 
and sent to Europe, to be tried for his offences, by the govern- 
ment at home. 

It is not easy to read the account of this infamous proceed- 
ing with any measure of patience. No one, perhaps not 
even Bovadilla himself believed, that Columbus had, in any 
respect, abused the authority, in which he had been placed 
by his sovereign. His life as a subject of Spain was that of 
uniform obedience and unwearied activity, and his whole 
conduct was such as to gain the esteem and admiration of eve- 
ry one, who had the opportunity, of being acquainted with it. 
In consequence of this opinion, Vallegos the captain of the ves- 
sel in which Columbus was confined, immediately after they 
had left the island, approached him, with feelings of the high- 
est veneration and regret, and offered to release him from 
his fetters. " No," said Columbus, " I wear those chains, in 
consequence of an order from the rulers of Spain. They 
shall find me as*obedient to this as to their other injunctions. 
By their command, I have been confined, and their command 
alone shall set me ai liberty." He never forgot the shameful 
treatment, which he then received. Through he whole of 
his life he carried with him his fetters as a memorial of the 
ingratitude of his country, and gave orders, that they should 
be buried with him in his grave. 

Upon his arrival in Spain, as a prisoner in fetters, the indig- 
nation of all was greatly excited and even the ungrateful and 
haughty Ferdinand felt, for a while the emotions of shame. 
He disclaimed all knowledge of his imprisonment, and like 
any other king, who is taught by his courtiers, that he can 
do no wrong, soothed him with promises, which he never in- 
tended to perform. As a proof of his sincerity, after detain- 
ing Columbus, for a long time, in fruitless solicitation, he ap- 
pointed Nicholas de Ovando governor of Ilispaniola in his 
stead. 



DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 13 

But though unwilling to restore Columbus to that station of 
which from his contract with them, he was unjustly deprived, 
Ferdinand and Isabella were still desirous ofemployinghim in 
new enterprises by sea. How they contrived to cajole him 
into such an undertaking, after they had treated him with 
such unparalleled indignity does not appear. We learn, how- 
ever, from the faithful page of history, that he made his fourth 
voyage to Hispaniola, in the year 1502. He from thence 
sailed along the continent about 200 leagues from Cape Gra- 
cios a Dios to Porto Bello. At length, after a considerable 
variety of fortune, when worn out with fatigue, disappoint- 
ment and sorrow, he ended his useful life at Valadolid, on 
the 25th May 1506. He was grave though courteous in his 
deportment, circumspect in his words and actions, irreproach- 
able in his morals and guided by a supreme respect for re- 
ligion, which he manifested in every department of his life. 
His remains were deposited in the Cathedral of Seville, and 
an inscription, of which the following is a translation, was 
engraved upon his tomb. 

" Columbus has given a New World to the kingdoms of 
Castile and Leon." 

The fate of this great man was marked with circumstances 
peculiarly striking. He, at an early period of his life, de- 
vised and after encountering difficulties almost insurmounta- 
ble, carried on to a successful issue, one of the most noble 
enterprises which ever entered into the mind of man. But 
notwithstanding the very liberal promises made to him, by 
the King and Queen of Spain, he was shamefully deprived of 
all and every part of the stipulated reward for his services, 
whilst living, and after his death, the honour of his very im- 
portant discoveries, has, in a great measure, been bestowed up- 
on another. 

Amongst several adventurers to the New World, soon after 
the route had been clearly pointed out, was Americus Vespu- 
sius, a native of Florence, who visited the continent some 
years after Columbus, and transmitted to his friends in Eu- 
rope, a history of his adventures, written in a captivating style. 
He had the address, to frame his narrative in sush a man- 
ner, as to make it be believed, that the glory of having first 
discovered the continent in the New World belonged to him, 
by which means he robbed Columbus of the honour, which he 
justly deserved. The story of Americus was, in part, believed. 
The consent of all nations has bestowed the name of America, 
on the western continent; and, at this distance of time, we can 
only regret an act of injustice, which custom has compelled 

B 



14 SETTLEMENT OF NEW-YORK 

us to sanction. At what period, this appellation was given. 
we have not the means of ascertaining. 



CHAPTER II. 

From the discovery of America by Columbus to the settle- 
ment of Fort Amsterdam, (now New-York) by the Dutch, 
in the year 1629. 

I have thus given a succinct account of the discovery of 
America by Columbus, and now proceed to detail the circum- 
stances, which occurred, from that period, to the settlement 
of Fort Amsterdam (now New-York) by the Dutch. 

Henry VII, king of England, employed Sebastian Cabot, a 
native of Venice, to discover a orth West passage to China, 
in attempting which he, in the year J 497, discovered all the 
North East coast of America from Cape Florida to 67° 1-2 
North lat. and as Cabot was in the English service, the king, 
as the phrase then was, became entitled to all that tract of 
country, by right of discovery. 

In the year 1584, Sir Walter Raleigh, an Englishman, sent 
two vessels, with people to effect a settlement, who landed at 
a place since called Roanoke, took possession of the country 
in the name of Elizabeth the English sovereign, and called it 
Virginia, in allusion to her being named The Virgin Queen. 
On 10th April 1606, two companies were incorporated by 
James A then king of England, by the names of the South 
Virginia Company and the \ T orth Virginia Company ; the 
limits of the former being between the lat. of 34° and 41 c 
and of the latter between 38° and 45°. By virtue of these 
patents, the South Virginia Company hegan a settlement in 
the great bay (Chesapeake) in 1607; but the North Vir- 
ginia Company planted no colony until the year 1620, when 
Plymouth in New England was settled. 

Henry Hudson, an Englishman, in the year 1608, sailing 
under a commission from his king, discovered Long Island, 
New- York, and the river, which still bears his name, the 
mouth of which is about 40° 20 v N. lat. Hudson, without li- 
cense from his sovereign, sold the country, or rather his right 
thereof to the Dutch. But the writers of that nation contend 
that he was sentout by their East India Company in the year 
16()9, to discover a North West passage to China, and thttt 
after having discovered Delaware Bay, he came hither and 



BY THE DUTCH. 15 

penetrated up Hudson's river as far North as the latitude of 
43°. It is said, however, that there was a sale and that the 
English objected to it, though they, for some time, neglected 
to oppose the Dutch settlement of the country. 

In 1610, Hudson sailed again from Holland to this coun- 
try, to which the Dutch had given the name of the New Neth- 
erlands, and in 1614, the States General granted a patent to 
the Dutch West India Company to carry on an exclusive 
trade on Hudson's River. Immediately after the receipt 
of their patent, they built a fort on the West side of that river 
near the spot, where Albany now stands, which was first com- 
manded by Henry Christiaens. In the same year, Sir Samuel 
Argall, president of the South Virginia Company was de- 
spatched by Sir Thomas Dale, governor of Virginia, to dis- 
possess the French of the towns of Port Royal and St. Croix 
lying on each side of the bay of Fundy, in Acadia, (now No- 
va Scotia) which was then claimed as ^. part of Virginia. 
In his return he visited the Dutch on Hudson's river, who 
finding themselves unable to make an effectual resistance 
prudently submitted, for the present, to the King of England, 
and under him to the Governor of Virginia, 

In the year 1620, King James I. gave the Dutch permission 
to build some cottages, on Hudson's river for the convenience 
of their vessels, engaged in trade with Brazil, and unde- this 
license, they settled a colony, to which they still gave the name 
of the New Netherlands. The very next year, they erected a 
fort, on the South West point of the island Manhattan (now 
New- York) and appear to have considered their said colony 
as including the whole of New Jersey and Hudson's river and 
the greater part of that tract of country, which now constitute 
the states of New-York and Pennsylvania, lying on both sides 
of New Jersey 

Complaint having been made of the usurpations -of the 
Dutch, b}' King Charles I. to the States General, the business 
was disavowed by them, and declared, in a public instrument, 
to be only a private undertaking of the West India company 
of Amsterdam. But whatever concessions were made by the 
Dutch government upon this occasion, their conduct appears 
to have been very little under the infl ;ence of sincerity. It is 
probable however, that the mode of procedure which they 
adopted, mi-ht have been, in consequence of the civil commo- 
tions, which took place in England, soon after the commence- 
ment of the reign of that infatuated monarch, and which gave 
to the government of that nation so much business at home, 
as to leave them very little leisure to direct their attention to 
their territories abroad. 



16 SETTLEMENT OF NEW-YORK 

We accordingly find, that the States General, determined 
on the regular settlement of a colony, and made a grant of 
the country in 1621 to the West India company of Amster- 
dam. Wouter Van Twiller arrived at Fort Amsterdam 
(now New York) and took upon him the government of 
the colony, in June 1629. His style, in the patents which 
he granted was thus. " We the Director and Council residing 
in New Netherland, under the government of their High 
Mightinesses the States General of the United Netherlands 
and the privileged West India Company." 



CHAPTER III. 

From the possession of the colony by the Dutch to its surren- 
der to the British, under the command of Colonel Richard 
Nichols, in the year 1664. 

It is my avowed object, in this undertaking, to lay before 
my readers the history of the city, not of the province, now 
the state of New-York : but at this early period, the circum- 
stances incident to the settlement of both are so Mended to- 
gether as to render it difficult to separate the one from the 
other. I shall, therefore, without farther apology, proceed, in 
the manner, which appears to be most practicable for general 
information. 

During the government of Mr. Van Twiller, the New-Eng- 
landers extended their possessions to the Westward, as far as 
Connecticut river. William Kieft, who succeeded in the ad- 
ministration, protested against it, and, in the year 1638, issued 
a proclamation prohibiting the English from trading to Fort 
Good Hope, and shortly after application was made to the 
States General for more troops to defend their territories 
against invasion. They appear to have had good reason for 
alarm, as Dr. Mather, in his History of New England, admits, 
that the inhabitants -had formed the design of settling Connec- 
ticut river in the year 1635, before which time they had con- 
sidered, that river to be, at least, 100 miles from any of their 
settlements, that in 1636 they seated themselves at Hartford, 
and after settling New Haven in 1638, drove the Dutch gar- 
rison from Fort Good Hope. 

In 1640, the English, who had taken possession of the 
Eastern part of Long Island, proceeded as far as Oyster Bay, 
about 40 miles from the city of New-York. But Kieft broke 



BY THE DUTCH. 17 

up their settlement in 1642, and fitted out two sloops to drive 
the Mary landers from the Schuylkill, of which they had then 
taken possession. The instructions to Alpendam, who com- 
manded the expedition assert, in the strongest terms, the right 
of which the Dutch deemed themselves possessed, both to the 
soil and trade on that riv :. Indeed it appears that they then 
claimed the exclusive jurisdiction of the whole country from 
Cape Co i to the West side of the entrance into he Delaware 
bay. About the same time, the Eng ish settlers from the 
Eastward, sent deputies to New-York for the purpose of set- 
tling their disputes about limits, to whom Re Dutch offered 
certain conditions, recorded in the Latin language, of which it 
may be sufficient to gi e the following abstract. 

Conditions offere by the director general of the council of 
New Netherland to the delegates of the Honourable the council 
of Hartford, viz. That the latter should pay for the occupancy 
of their lands to the States Genera of the United Provinces, or 
to their agents, the tenth part of the emoluments arising fom 
their fiel s, orchards, and g rdens ; or, in lieu thereof, su« 
valuable consideration as might thereafter be agreed upon, so 
long as they should possess the said lands. Dated at Fort 
Amsterdam, 9th July, 1642. 

We have no account, that t u e English acceded to these pro- 
posals. On the contrary, they daily extended their posses- 
sions, and in 1 643 the colonies of New England, entered into 
a league bo h against the Dutch and the Indi ns; the former 
of whom they even proposed to extirpate. But to this mea- 
sure, the colony of Massachusetts bay would not accede, in 
consequence of which it was abandoned. 

Peter Stuyvesant, the last Dutch Governor of this country, 
entered on his administration 27th May, 1647- The inroadi 
and claims upon his government kept him constantly employ- 
ed. New England as well as Maryland alarmed his fears by 
their rapid increase, and, at the same time Lon: Island was 
claimed for the dowager of Sterling. The Swedes too were 
continually encroaching upon Delaware. In 1 65 1, the Dutch 
built fort Casimir, now called New-Castle; but of this the 
Swedes who claimed the country as thei own, got posses- 
sion, soon after it was erected In 1655, the Dutch prepared 
to retake t ; Stuyvesant commanded the expedition in person, 
and arrived with his forces in the Delaware. He landed them 
a few days afer and immediately demanded th fortress, as 
Dutch property. Suen Scutz, the commandant desired leave 
to consult Risingh his superior officer, which being refused, 
he capitulated, on the l6th September. Risingh, who com- 

B 2 



IS SETTLEMENT OP NEW-YORK 

manded Fort Christina, likewise surrendered on the 25th of 
the same month. The country being thus subdued, Stuyve- 
sant issued a proclamation, in favour of such of the inhabitants 
as would submit to the Dutch government, and about thirty 
Swedes swore "fidelity to the States General, &c." Those 
who would not take the oath, were sent to their native country. 
The Swedes being thus completely subdued, the Dutch became 
masters of what was then called u the three lower counties/' 
now the State of Delaware. 

This part of the country was afterwards under the com- 
mand of Lieutenant governors who were commissioned by and 
subject to the controul of the director general at Fort Amster- 
dam. It appears that the last of these deputies or lieutenant 
governors, was William Beekman, a man of resolution and 
unquestionable integrity, many of whose descendants are 
amongst our most respectable citizens, at the present day. 

In the year 1659, fresh troubles arose from the Maryland 
claims. The whole of the country comprised between 38° 
and 40° N. Lat. and extending from the Atlantic to the Paci- 
fic ocean was ordered to be evacuated by Colonel Utie, the 
agent of Lord Baltimore, who was then the proprietary of 
Maryland. Mr. Beekman questioned his lordship's right and 
desired three weeks indulgence, so that he might be able to 
consult Stuyvesant the director general upon the subject. 
This proposal was rejected and Utie gave him peremptory or- 
ders to withdraw his forces immediately, beyond the 40° of 
N. lat. Beekman, who was an inflexible patriot, disregarded 
his threats. Utie returned to Maryland, without having gained 
his object, and an immediate invasion was expected. But the 
storm blew over, and the Dutch were permitted to remain 
without molestation. 

That Governor Stuyvesant was indefatigable in the service 
of his employers is evident from the whole of his conduct, but 
particularly so from his letters, exciting them to take care of 
the colony. In one dated April 20th, 1 660, he writes thus, 
"YourHonouis imagine, that the troubles in England will 
prevent any attempts on these parts. Alas ! they are ten to 
one in number to us and able, without any assistance, to de- 
prive us of the country when they please, 7 ' and on the 20th of 
June following he informs them, that the demands and en- 
croachments of the English gave the people here great con- 
cern and though, says he, " the right to both rivers by pur- 
chase and possession is our own, without doubt, we apprehend, 
that they, our more powerful neighbours, lay their claim under 
a royal charter.'* 



BY THE DUTCH. 19 

About the same time, while the colonists of New England, 
were daily encroaching upon the Dutch, Lord Sterling was 
soliciting the King for a confirmation of his right to the whole 
of Long Island, which had been granted to him by his royal 
father, and the inhabitants of Maryland were becoming ex- 
ceedingly troublesome. Of all these difficulties Stuy vesant in- 
formed his masters at length, in a letter dated 21st July, l66l, 
in which he also mentions that the king of England had been 
solicited to invade their territories, for which purpose three or 
four frigates had been solicited and that he had been made to 
believe that the Dutch West India Companybeld this country, 
under a*h unlawful title, having only obtained leave of James I 
for a watering place on Staten Island. 

It was somewhat remarkable, that while the Dutch were 
contending with their European neighbours, they had always 
been able to maintain friendship with the natives, until the 
war which broke out with the Indians in Ulster county in 
l66l ; but this continued for a very short time. The fact is, 
that the Dutch treated them with justice and humanity, and 
if other nations had acted in the same judicious manner, we 
would have had few complaints respecting Indian massacres 
and barbarity. 

On the l°2th March, 1664, King Charles II by letters pa- 
tent under the great seal of England, granted to his brother 
James duke of York, his heirs and assigns all Mattawacks, now 
Long Island, all Hudson's river, and all the lands from the 
West side'of Connecticut river to the East side of Delaware 
bay, together with all royalties and the right of government. 
Of this the Duke sold all that part, which includes the present 
state of New-Jersey, in June 1664, to Lord Berkley and Sir 
(ieorge Carteret, in as full a manner as he had received it. 
And this possession of the English was confirmed on the 21st 
July, 1667 by the treaty of Breda between Charles II and the 
States general. The remaining part of the property granted, 
now the state of New- York, was so called in honour of the 
Duke of York. New Jersey took it? name from the isle of 
Jersey, in compliment to Sir George Carteret, whose family 
came from thence. 

Soon after the grant of this patent, King Charles despatch- 
ed a small force for the purpose of subduing the country. Of 
the designs of the English against them, the Dutch inhabitants 
were, by the vigilance of their governor, apprised on the 8th 
of July, who then received information that an expedition was 
preparing against them, consisting of three vessels of 40 or 50 
guns each, having on board about three hundred soldiers and 



2fl NEW-YORK SURRENDERED 

that they lay at Portsmouth waiting for a wind- It afterwards 
turned out that t.ere were four vessels. The burgomasters 
were thereup n called into Council who ordered the fort to 
be put in the best state of defence. The squadron soon after 
arrived at Boston, where the commissioners had a conference 
with the Council, and earnestly besought the assistance of that 
colony ; but they did not then comply with the request, al- 
though they did soon after. The reasons urged in their ex- 
cuse were poverty and the season, it being then harvest ; but 
perhaps disaffection to the Stuart family, by -hose perse- 
cuting spirit, they had been driven from their native country, 
might have been the true spring of their conduct. As soon as 
all the vessels arrived at New- York, which was on the 26th 
August, S'uyvesant sent a polite letter to the English com- 
manders, desiring the reason of their approach and continu- 
ance in the harbour, without giving notice to the Dutch, Colo- 
nel Nichols sent an answer the next day, ,• ith a summons to 
surrender. It is addressed " To the Honourable the Gover- 
nor and chief Council of the Manhattans." 

In this document, he informs them, that the King his sove- 
reign had, for the maintenance of his unquestionable rights, 
commanded him to require from the Dutch the surrender of 
all forts, towns or places of strength under their jurisdiction 
and that he, in his majesty's name, demanded the immediate 
surrender o; the town situate on the island of JManhattoes, with 
all the forts thereunto belonging. He concludes, by assuring 
them, that every Dutch inhabitant, who should readily submit 
to his majesty's government, should be secured in his estate, 
life and liberty, and concludes by expressing his expectation, 
that he would receive an answer by the four gentlemen, whom 
he had despatched with the summons. Dated on board his 
majesty's ship the Gwyny, 3ist Aug. 1664, and subscribed 
" Robert Nichols." 

Stuyvesant promised an answer the next morning and, in 
the mean time, convened the council and burgomasters He 
was a brave soldier, had lost a leg in the service of his country 
and was desirous of defending the place,, by all the means in 
his power. He, therefore, refused both to the inhabitants and 
burgomasters, a sight of the summons, least the easy terms 
proposed might induce them to capitulate. The inhabitants 
were called together at the Stadt-house and informed of the 
governor's refusal. On the 2d Sept. the burgomasters came 
into council and demanded to see the summons, which he, in 
a fit of anger, tore to pieces Upon this, they protested against 
the act and all its consequences. But notwithstanding the 



TO THE ENGLISH. 21 

yielding disposition of the inhabitants to the British commis- 
sioners, our gallant veteran having resolved on a vigorous re- 
sistance, sent them a long letter vindicating the justice of the 
Dutch claims, to the territories, which they occupied in this 
country arid his determination to support them. This is dat- 
ed, at the Fort at Amsterdam 3d Sept. 1664. 

While the governor and council were contending with the 
burgomasters and people in the city, the English commission- 
ers published a proclamation in the country, encouraging the 
inhabitants to submit, and promising them all the privileges 
of British subjects. Many, on discovering from Stuyvesant's 
letter, which was then, likewise, published, that he was averse 
to the surrender, being fearful of the impending storm, resolv- 
ed to join the strongest party and began on Long Island to 
beat up for volunteers. The honest governor being thus 
invaded by a foreign enemy and not only deserted, but even 
threatened bythose on whose friendship he had depended, per- 
ceiving that resistance would only occasion the wanton effusion 
of blood, agreed to the appointment of certain distinguished 
citizens, who, in conjunction with the British commissioners 
should conclude a treaty for the surrender of the colony. This 
instrument consisted of 23 articles, of which it is sufficient to 
give the outlines of some of the most prominent. The States 
General or West India Company were to enjoy all farms and 
houses, except those in the forts and had liberty, within six 
months, to transport all the arms and ammunition, which be- 
longed to them. The people might remain free denizens and 
occupy or dispose of their lands, houses and goods as they 
pleased. They were to enjoy free liberty of conscience, and 
retain their own customs respecting their inheritance?. No 
judgment, which had passed any of their courts of judicature 
could be called in question, and all previous differences re- 
specting contracts were to be determined according to the 
manner of the Dutch. No Dutchman nor Dutch ship could 
be pressed to serve in war against any nation whatever and 
no soldiers quartered on the inhabitants. Inferior civil officers 
might continue to fill their stations till the customary time of 
new election, and the inhabitants were entitled to chose depu- 
ties, who should have free voices in all public affairs. The sol- 
diers were to march out with the honours of war and each of 
them, who chose to remain in the country, was entitled to 50 
acres of land. These articles were approved by Colonel 
Nichols on the 7th September and on the 9th by Governor 
Stuyvesant. 

The town of Fort Amsterdam, now assumed the name oX 



2 2 NEW-YORK SURRENDERED 

Neic-York. The terms of capitulation were so satisfactory 
to the inhabitants, that within two days after the surrender, 
the military aid, which, had been sent on from Boston, was 
dismissed. Hudson's river was still, however, to be reduced. 
Sir George Carteret was commissioned for that purpose and 
subdued Fort Orange, which, on its capitulation, on the 24th 
Septt mber, he called Albany in honour of the proprietor 
James Duke of York, and Albany. Very few of the inhabi- 
tants left the country. Even Governor Stuyvesant himself 
ended his days in peace on his own estate, situate about a mile 
and a half to the Eastward of the City Hall, which said estate 
is now possessed by Nicholas and Peter Stuyvesant Esqs. and 
their two sisters the ladies of General Nicholas Fish and of 
Benjamin Winthrop Esq. his descendants of the 5th genera- 
tion. 

It is but justice to observe that the descendants of those 
honest Dutchmen, who, in the year 1664, were compelled to 
surrender the city and province to the superior force of the 
British have, in general, been exceeded by none of their fel- 
low citizens in honesty, industry and sobriety. They are, 
likewise, entitled to great credit for their uniform attachment 
to that constitution, under which we now so happily live. 
Many of them at the present day, hold distinguished offices 
under the national and state governments, the corporation of 
our cities and also in the church and with very few exceptions, 
perform their respective duties, in such a manner, as is hon- 
ourable to themselves and advantageous to the public. 



CHAPTER IV. 

From the surrender of the province to the English in 1664, to 
the accession of King William and Queen Mary to the 
throne in 1688. 

Colonel Nichols bavin? thus got possession of the coun- 
try, assumed the government by the title of " deputy gover- 
nor, under his royal highness the Duke of York, over all his 
territories in America." Soon after the commencement ol 
his administration, he with great prudence, endeavoured to 
promote the gradual introduction of the English methods of 
government Hence on the 12th June, 1665, he incorporated 
the inhabitants of New-York, under a mayor, five aldermen 
and a sheriff. Till that time, the city was governed accord- 
ing to the mode which then prevailed in Holland. 



TO THE DUTCH AND AGAIN RESTORED. 23 

After an administration of nearly three years, Nichols re- 
turned to England. He erected no courts of justice ; but took 
upon himself the sole decision of all cases whatsoever. But 
he was a man of an easy and benevolent disposition ; and. 
notwithstanding his plenitude of power, it is much to his ho- 
nour, that he governed the province with integrity and mode- 
ration. 

Colonel Francis Lovelace, was appointed to succeed Ni- 
chols and entered on the duties of his office in May 1667. 
As he was a man of great moderation, the people lived peace- 
ably under him till the re-surrender of the colony, which put 
an end to his power. In 1672, a war broke out between 
Charles II of England and the States General. On the 30th 
July, 1673, a few Dutch ships arrived within a few miles of 
the city, when Captain John Manning, who then commanded 
the fort, treacherously delivered it up to the enemy without 
firing a shot. Anthony Colve, a captain in the army of the 
States General, was appointed governor of the New Nether- 
lands, as they were bounded at the time of the surrender in 
1 664. But he did not long enjoy his office, as on the 9th Feb- 
ruary, 1 674, the treaty of peace between England and the 
States General was concluded, by virtue of which this country 
was restored to the English. 

On the 1st J lv, 1674, the duke appointed Sir Edmund 
Andross to be governor of his territories in America. On 
the 31st October, a court martial was called to try Manning 
for his treachery and cowardice in having surrendered the 
fort. Manning, on his trial, confessed that the charges ad- 
duced against him, were true ; yet the sentence of the c>urt 
was so lenient, that though they declared, that he had deserv- 
ed death, as he had been in England and seen the King and 
the Duke, the punishment to be inflicted on him was, that his 
sword should be broke over his head and that he should, in 
future, be incapable of serving his majesty in any office what- 
ever. 

This light censure, however, is no proof that Sir Edward 
was a man of a merciful disposition. On the contrary every 
part of his conduct abundantly shews that he was an arbi- 
trary tyrant, who knew no law but the will of his master, nor 
any rule of action except the gratification of his malignant 
and unruly passions. Towards the close of his administra- 
tion, he quarrelled with Philip Carteret, who in 1680, exercis- 
ed the government of East Jersey, under a commission from 
the proprietor Sir George Carteret. Andross disputed his 
right and brought him prisoner to this city, for which it was 



24 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

alledged by some, that he lost his own government. But if it 
be considered, that he was immediately preferred to be gover- 
nor of Massachusetts, it is more than probable, that he was 
superseded for some other reason. 

Though the Duke had appointed Colonel Thomas Dongan, 
as the successor of Andross on the 30th September, 1682, he 
did not arrive till the 27th August, in the year following. He 
was a professed catholic , but no bigot. He was a man of in- 
tegrity, moderation and genteel manners, and may be consid- 
ered as one of the best governors sent from England to this 
country. 

Till the arrival of Colonel Dongan, the people had been 
ruled at the will of the Duke or his deputies ; but soon after 
he assumed the government, he issued orders to the freehold- 
ers to choose representatives, who should meet him in Assem- 
bly, on the 17th October, 1683. Nothing could be more agree- 
able to the people, who whether Dutch or English, were born 
the subjects of a free state, and who, of course, could not easi- 
ly submit to the arbitrary mandates of an individual. Don- 
gan, who undoubtedly had the interest of the province at 
heart, surpassed all his predecessors in keeping the Indians 
in a state of tranquillity. And it ought to be mentioned to his 
honour,that though he was ordered by the Duke, to encourage 
the French priests to live amongst them, he expressly forbade 
the natives to entertain them, as he well knew, that the object 
of these missionaries was not to propagate the blessed gospel ; 
but to alienate the affections of the Indians from the English 
government and to induce them to espouse the cause of France. 
These pretended apostles w -°, however, notwithstanding the 
governor's endeavours to prevent it, too successful in their 
machinations. The Five Nations of Indians, as they were 
called, who were then very powerful, at their instigation, com- 
menced hostilities on the back parts of Virginia and Mary- 
land, which occasioned a grand convention, at Albany, in 
1684, where a treaty was made, by which the Indians agreed 
to desist from further depredations. The ratification of this 
treaty w r as, in a great measure, owing to the exertions of Col- 
onel Dongan, whom the Indians deservedly held in great es- 
timation. 

Soon after this, De la Barre governor of Canada, with a 
powerful army, made war against the Five Nations, meditat- 
ing no less than their total destruction, and a letter was receiv- 
ed by Colonel Dongan, from the Duke commanding him to 
lay no obstacles in the way ; but the Governor regardless of 
his master's orders, apprized the Indians of the French designs 



UNDER THE ENGLISH. 25 

and promise J to assist them. Between the Indians and Ca- 
nadians, a sanguinary war took place, which continued with 
various success, till the end of the year 1688 ; but as the 
events, which occurred during that war are foreign to the sub- 
ject, I shall only observe, that on the 26th July, twelve hun- 
dred Indians landed at Montreal, while the French were in 
perfect security, burnt their houses, and put' to the sword all 
the men, women and children, whom they fell in with. A 
thousand French were slain and twenty six made prisoners and 
burnt alive. Many more were taken in October following 
and the lower part of the island completely destroyed. Never 
before did the Canadians sustain so heavy a loss ; nor did 
their distresses end here. Numerous scouts from the Five 
Nations continually infested their borders and, by their re- 
peated depredations, prevented them from cultivating their 
fields, in consequence of which a famine raged through the 
whole country. It was, therefore, peculiarly fortunate to the 
French, that through the pusillanimous and fluctuating mea- 
sures pursued under the reign of James II, then king of Eng- 
land, the colonies were incapable of affording succour to the 
Indians. 

While these things were transacting in Canada, a scene of 
the greatest importance was opening in this city. A general 
disaffection to the government prevailed among the people. 
Roman Catholics began to settle in the province, under the 
smiles of the governor. The collector and several principal 
officers threw off the mask and openly avowed their adherence 
to the church of Rome. A latin school was opened and the 
general belief was that the teacher was a Jesuit. The whole 
community was thrown into the most violent agitation, as it 
was generally believed, that the Protestant cause was in dan- 
ger Should such circumstances occur, in this country, at the 
present day, they would excite no alarm ; but let it be remem- 
bered that, at that period, the doctrine of religious liberty was 
scarcely, if at all, understood. During the dark ages, perse- 
cuting principles acquired great strength. They struck their 
roots very deep in the hierachy of the church of Rome and in- 
tolerance was the evil spirit, which pervaded all the members 
of that body. But it would be unjust, if we should confine 
our censures of this persecuting mania to the church of Rome ; 
for it is notorious, that immediately after the reformation, 
much of the same spirit still remained amongst the protestants, 
and the most melancholy effects were often produced by it. 
New England was scarcely settled by the Puritans, who had 
been driven from their native country, bv religious intole- 

C 



2G THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

ranee, when the most severe laws were enacted against tfi€ 
unoffensive people called Quakers, some of whom were hanged* 
and we have many instances in the history of this city, by 
which it will evidently appear, that not only individuals ; but 
communities, at large, have been put to great inconvenience, 
because they could not conscientiously subscribe to the same 
religious opinions as were entertained by men in power. Now 
I am confident, there is not, in the whole of the New Testa- 
ment, a single text, which affords the least shadow of authority 
for persecution, on account of difference of opinion ; but innu- 
merable passages might be adduced, to prove, that such a spi- 
rit is altogether repugnant to that of the gospel. One, howev- 
er, shall suffice. The following is recorded in the 9th chapter 
of Luke's gospel, from the 51st to the 56th verse inclusive; 
" And it came to pass, when the time was come, that he should 
be received up, he immediately set his face to go to Jerusa- 
lem, and sent messengers before his face ; and they went and 
entered into a village of the Samaritans to make ready for 
him, and they did not receive him ; because his face was, as 
though he would go to Jerusalem. And when his disciples 
James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou, that we 
command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, 
even as Elias did ? But he returned and rebuked them and 
said, ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of : For the 
Sen of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save 
them. And they ivent to another village" It may then be 
asked, does Christianity toleraie idolatry The preceding pas- 
sage decides this point very clearly. The worship of the Sa- 
maritans was not instituted by God. Tt Was set up in opposi- 
tion to instituted worship, and ignorance was the mother of 
their devotion. Many heathenish rites were employed in 
their temple on Mount Gerizzim and their temple itself was 
consecrated to Jupiter Olympus. Yet our blessed Lord 
would not have them destroyed on these accounts. On the 
contrary, he rebuked his disciples, not for deserting their own 
station ; not for usurping the powers and prerogatives of other 
men, though in these respects they were faulty; but for mis- 
taking the true s iritof his religion ; forgiving place to sinful 
and cruel passions altogether inconsistent with its principles. 
Here it may be asked does the Christian religion tolerate Ju- 
daism, Mahometanism and Paganism ? The answer is, that 
though every religion were enumerated, which now exists in 
the world, The Christian Religion will tolerate them 
all, provided they teach no opinions, which are destructive 
t& the state or dangerous to the peace of the community. 



UNDER THE ENGLISH. 2?* 

Every man has a right to judge for himself in matters of reli- 
gion. This is a privilege which he received from his Creator. 
It is confirmed to him by the religion of Jesus and none, but 
a tyrant will attempt to encroach upon it. But it is a lamen- 
table fact, that the liberty of worshipping God, according to 
the dictades of conscience, has been restricted for many ages, 
in every christian country and is even, at this day, fully and 
securely enjoyed in none, except in the United States of Amer- 
ica. Catholics, indeed, have the privilege in Great Britain and 
Ireland, as well as in the United Netherlands, Denmark and 
Sweden of worshipping God in their own way; and protes- 
tants enjoy a similar liberty in France and some other catho- 
lic countries ; but still in each of these nations, there is an es- 
tablished religion and those, who do not submit to its doctrines 
and discipline are subjected to certain privations and restric- 
tions. But, in this happy land, such distinctions are entirely 
unknown. Here, all denominations are left at perfect liberty 
to support their own ministers and maintain the order of their 
worship in such way as to them may be most agreeable. Nor 
has this unlimited toleration produced more sects in this than 
in other countries, less tolerant of religious opinions. It may 
be farther observed, that though we have now in this city 14 
religious denominations, several of them, however, differing 
from each other rather in name than in reality, all of them live 
together in the greatest harmony. Hence it is probable, that 
such malignant feuds, as those, which disgraced our city in the 
year 1 684, and, at several other periods of our history, will 
never again be witnessed either here or in any other part of our 
country. 

But to return from my digression, Dongan, about this time 
incurred the king's displeasure, through his zeal to promote 
the true interest of the colony and, likewise, lost his popularity 
among the inhabitants. Previous to his departure, he resign- 
ed his authority to Francis Njcholson, the lieutenant governor. 
But all was now in confusion. News had arrived from Fng- 
land, that King James, in consequence of his arbitrary mea- 
sures, had become so obnoxious to the people, that dreading 
their vengeance, he had deemed it expedient to secure his per- 
sonal safety by quitting his kingdoms ; that the parliament 
had declared he had forfeited his right to the throne, which 
they settled on William & Mary (king James's daughter) the 
prince and princess of Orange. This intelligence gieatly en- 
couraged the discontented, who then constituted the greatest 
part of the inhabitants; but no man dared to take an active 
parr ; till the people of Boston had set the example. Sir Ed- 



28 THE CITY OF NEW- YORK 

mund Andros, by his tyranny in New England, had drawn 
upon himself the odium of the people, who spurning at his de- 
spotic rule, cast him into prison and afterwards sent him to 
England. The government, in the mean time, was vested in 
what they termed a committee of safety. Upon the news of 
this event, several captains of the militia met in this city to con- 
oert measures in favour of the Prince of Orange. Amongst 
them, Captain Jacob Leisler, a man of moderate fortune and 
in tolerable esteem amongst the people, although destitute of 
every qualification necessary for a daring enterprise, took the 
lead and obtained an absolute controul over the other officers. 
The first thing, which he did was to seize the garrison in 
the city, which he entered with forty-nine men, and determin- 
ed to hold it till the whole militia should join him. He pub- 
lished a declaration in favour of the prince of Orange; but as 
the council and magistrates of the city were against it, it was 
subscribed only by a few of his more particular adherents. 
From a variety of causes, however, his party, in a faw days, 
gained strength, so that on the 3d of June 1689, he was joined 
by six captains and four hundred men of the city and a compa- 
ny of seventy from East Chester, who all subscribed a second 
declaration mutually agreeing to hold the fort for the prince. 
Leisler's sudden attainment of supreme power over the pro- 
vince and the prospects of King William's approbation of his 
conduct, naturally excited the jealousy of the late council and 
magistrates, and hence arose their aversion to the man and his 
measures ; and the future divisions in the province, which ter- 
minated at length fatally to himself. 



CHAPTER V. 

From the accession of King William and Queen Mary to the 
crown in 1688, to the arrival of .Governor Burnet, in the 
year \J\ci). 

King William finding himself in quiet possession of the 
British crown, began to direct his attention towards the settle- 
ment of his American colonies. He accordingly granted a 
commission to Colonel Kenry Sloughter as governor of New 
York ; but he did not arrive here till the 19th of March 
1691. Never was a governor more wanted than at this cri- 
sis, as well for reconciling a divided people, as for defending 
them against the wiles of the French in Canada. It unfortu- 



UNDER THE ENGLISH. 29 

wately happened, however, that the man appointed for that 
station, was destitute of every requisite qualification, as he 
was licentious in his morals, poor and avaricious. 
- If Leisler had delivered the garrison to Sloughter, as he 
ought on his arrival in this city, besides extinguishing the ex- 
isting animosities, he would doubtless have conciliated the fa- 
vour of the governour, as well as of the king But he was so 
infatuated with the love of power, that though he well knew of 
Sloughter's appointment to the government, he shut himself 
up in the fort and refused to surrender it. At last, however, 
he deemed it expedient to give it up, which Sloughter imme- 
diately entered, and issued a commission of Oyer and Termi- 
ner for the trial of Leisler and many of his adherents. He 
and his son in law Jacob Milborne were condemned to death 
for high treason. 

Here it may be proper to observe, that from the surrender 
of this province by the Dutch to the year lf>83, the Duke of 
York, possessed full sovereignty. He appointed the governors 
and the council, who made rules and orders, which were ac- 
knowledged as laws. These about the year 1674, were ar- 
ranged in a regular manner and a fair copy of them may be 
found in the archives of the state. They were commonly 
known, by the name of " tf The Duke's Laws." The title 
page, which is pompous enough, is written in the old court 
hand and in the latin language, of which the following is a 
translation. " The jurisprudence of New-York, or laws 
enacted and ordained by the most illustrious prince James 
Duke of York, to be observed in the territories of America, 
transcribed in the year of our Lord 1674." 

For the sake of shewing the spirit of the times, I trust that 
the following brief abstract of a few of the most remarkable of 
these laws will be perused with some degree of interest 

Capital Crimes. These were in number twelve. 1st. The 
denying of the true God and his attributes, by direct express, 
impious, or presumptuous ways. 2d. Wilful and premeditat- 
ed murder. 3d. The slaying of a person with sword or dag- 
ger, who hath no weapon to defend himself. 4th. The slay- 
ing or causing a person to be slain, by lying in wait privately 
for him, by poison or any such wicked conspiracy. 5th, and 
6th. Two detestable crimes, which delicacy forbids to men- 
tion. 7th. Man stealing. 8th. Bearing false witness mali- 
ciously and on purpose to take away a man's life. 9th. The 
traitorously denying of his majesty's right and title to his 
crowns and dominions or the raising of arms to resist his au- 
thority. 10th. The treacherously conspiring or publicly al- 

C 2 



30 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

tempting to invade or surprise any town or towns, fort or forti 
within the province. 11th. A young person, above sixteen 
years of age smiting his father or mother, unless thereunto 
forced for self preservation, at the complaint of the father or 
mother, and not otherwise. 12th. Every married person, 
who shall be proved by confession of parties, or by sufficient 
testimony to have had carnal connection, with a married man 
or woman. But should any single person be found guilty, 
in the same manner of having had a criminal intrigue, with a 
married man or woman, they both shall be grievously fined 
and punishe , as the governor and council, or the court of as- 
sizes hall deem proper, not extending to life or limb. 

Condemned. No one, condemned to die, shall be executed, 
till some days after his sentence, unless the governor see spe- 
cial cause to the contrary or in case of martial law, and the 
person executed shall be buried near the place of execution. 

Forgery. Any person guilty of that crime, shall stand 
in the pillory, three several court days, render double dama- 
ges to the party injured, and also be disqualified to be witness 
or juror, in a court of justice. 

Fornication. If any man commit fornication with a single 
woman, they shall both be punished by enjoining marriage, 
the infliction of fine or corporal punishment, or any of them, 
according to the discretion of the court. 

Horses and Mares. No mare shall be exported from this 
government to Barbadoes, Virginia or any other remote plan- 
tation, without speciallicense, under the penalty of forfeiting 
the mare, so shipped for exportation. 

Indians. No purchase of lands from Indians, after the 1st 
March 1664, shall be valid, without leave from the governor, 
before whom the purchaser shall bring the sachem and right 
owner of such lands to acknowledge payment and satisfaction 
for the same, whereupon they shall have a grant from the go- 
vernor 'f and the purchase so made is to be entered on the re- 
cords of the office. No Indian shall, at any time, be suffered 
to perform outward worship to the devil, in any town within 
this government. 

Innkeepers. No person licensed to keep an Inn or ordina- 
ry shall unreasonably exact on his guests. The price of a 
meal with small beer, shall be eight pence only, unless the 
guest shall make another agreement with the landlord, who 
shall always be provided with good and wholesome strong 
beer, of at least, four bushels of malt to a hogshead under the 
. penalty of twenty shillings for the first offence, forty shillings 
for the second and loss of license. It is permitted to any one 
to sell beer out of doors, at a penny, the ale quart or under. 



UNDER THE ENGLISH. #1 

Marriages. After providing, that persons about to be mat" 
kied shall declare upon oath, before the minister or justice, 
that they are not,under the bonds of matrimony to any person 
living, it is decreed, that if it shall be afterwards proved, that 
either or both the parties are perjured and thereby attain a 
double marriage, the party or persons so offending shall be 
bored through the tongue with a red hot iron and also proceed- 
ed against as is provided in cases of perjury. But if either 
party shall be proved ignorant of the other's fraud, the inno- 
cent person shall recover damages against the guilty and be 
as free, as if such marriage had not been ratified. 

A provision to supply the place of laws. 

As it is almost impossible to provide sufficient laws in all 
cases, or proper punishments for all crimes, the court of ses- 
sions shall not take further notice of any case or crime 5 
but remit the same with the examination and proofs to the 
next court of assises, where matters of equity shall be decided 
or punishments awarded, according to the discretion of the 
bench, and not contrary to the known laws of England. 

On the 9th of April 1691, the assembly commenced its ses- 
sion in this city, and as it was the first that was held after the 
revolution of 1 68 8. it may be proper to give a short account 
of its transactions. The house was composed of seventeen 
members, viz. four from the city and county of New-York, 
two from Ulster and Dutchess counties, and two from each ot 
the following counties, viz. from Albany, Richmond, Suffolk, 
Queen's and King's and one from Westchester. 

James GraJiam of this city was elected speaker and ap- 
proved by the Governor. The representatives from Queen's 
county, belonging to the society of friends, commonly called 
quakers were dismissed for refusing the oaths prescribed by the 
governor. The remaining fifteen were qualified. This body 
was opposed to the measures of Leisler during the latter part 
of his time. Hence, they unanimously resolved that his con- 
duct, in many instances, which they specified, was tumultuous, 
illegal and against their majesty's right and that his holding 
the fort against the governor was an act of rebellion. The 
governor was very unwilling to cut off two men, viz. Leisler 
and his son in law who though highly culpable, had in a most 
signal manner, contributed to the revolution ; but when drown- 
ed in his cups, at a feast, which had been prepared for him, he 
was prevailed on to sign the death warrant and before he re- 
covered his senses, the prisoners were executed. Leisler s 
son soon after carried a complaint to the English government, 



32 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

by whom it was decided, on the 17th March 1692, that Jacob 
Leisler and Jacob Milborne were condemned and had suffer- 
ed according to law." Their estates, however, which in con- 
sequence of the barbarous custom of the English government, 
were forfeited to the crown, were restored to their families: 
and Leister's children were, in the public estimation rather 
dignified than disgraced by ihe fall of their ancestor. 

This assembly, likewise unanimously resolved^ that all the 
laws passed by James duke of York, and also the several or- 
dinances made by the late governors and councils, were void 
and of no force within this province. Among the laws enact- 
ed was that for establishing the revenue. The sums raised by 
it were made payable to the receiver general and issued by 
the governor's warrant, who, by these means, became abso- 
lutely independent of the people. Hence we find frequent in- 
stances of assemblies contending with him for the discharge of 
debts to individuals, for which the public faith was pledged. 

Colonel Sloughter had gone to Albany in the month of 
June 1691 to settle some matters, with the allied Indians and 
soon after his return to this city ended a short, weak and tur- 
bulent administration, by his sudden death, on the 23d of July 
1691. On his decease, the council committed the chief com- 
mand to Richard Inglesby, a captain of an independent com- 
pany who was sworn into office on the 3d day thereafter. 
Though possessed of very limited talents for government, the 
council and assembly acted in harmony during his short ad- 
ministration, which ended on the 29th August 1692. 

On that day, Colonel Benjamin Fletcher arrived with a 
commission to be governor, and brought with him as a pre- 
sent to the province, arms, amunition and warlike stores, of 
which it, at that time, stood greatly in need. Fletcher was a 
soldier by profession, a man of strong passions, of inconside- 
rable talents, very active as well as avaricious and a strenuous 
advocate for the Episcopal form of church government. It 
was fortunate for him, that after his arrival, he became ac- 
quainted with Major Schuyler, at Albany, than whom there 
was no man in the province better acquainted with the state 
of affairs with the Indians. .Over them, he had gained so 
complete an influence, by repeated acts of kindness and by his 
singular zeal in defence of his country, that his recommenda- 
tions had the force of law. For these qualifications, Fletcher 
very wisely took him into his confidence and made him a 
member of the council board. Under the tutelage of the wor- 
thy major, the governor was daily gaining a more complete 
knowledge of Indian affairs, without which and his constant 



UNDER THE ENGLISH. 33 

application towards them, which was, indeed, all he had to 
recommend him, his constant solicitations for money, his un- 
governable temper and bigotted principles must have neces- 
sarily rendered him highly obnoxious to the people. 
r On the 15th January 1693, a body of between six and seven 
hundred French and Indians set out from Montreal and after 
a march of incredible hardships passed by Schenectady on 
the 6th of February, when three hundred Indians in the British 
interest, were made prisoners. Schuyler supported the cause 
of his country with 1 great vigour, retook many of the Indian 
prisoners and compelled the enemy to abandon their enter- 
prise. The British Indians were, however, so distressed for 
provisions, that they fed upon the dead bodies of the French, 
and the rench, in their turn, before they got' home were re- 
duced to the necessity of eating their own shoes. 

Fletcher's uncommon despatch to Albany, upon the news 
of this descent, gained him for a time the esteem of the public. 
The express reached this city, on the ! 2th of February, about 
10 o'clock at night and in less than two days he embarked with 
300 volunteers. He arrived at Schenectady by the 17th of 
the month ; but notwithstanding his extraordinary activity, 
he was too late to be of any farther use than to strengthen the 
ancient alliance. On his return to the city in March, the as- 
sembly, who were then in session, were so well pleased with 
his vigilance, that besides giving him their thanks, they raised 
$15,000 for a years' pay of 300 volunteers for the defence of 
the frontiers. 

Presuming upon the good opinion, which the assembly 
seemed to entertain, of the importance of his services, he ven- 
tured to exhort them, in the most earnest manner, to pass a 
saw for, the establishment of the chun h of England ; but to a 
measure of this kind the house were entirely averse, in conse- 
quence of which, the governor, at the close of the session, gave 
them a severe rebuke. 

At the first meeting of the next legislature, he laboured hard 
to procure the establishment of a ministry throughout the col- 
ony. The assembly passed a bill for that purpose, which was 
sent to the governor and council for their concurrence, but 
they immediately returned it with an amendment to vest his 
Excellency with the power of inducting every incumbent, ad- 
ding to that part of the bill, which gave the right of presenta- 
tion to the people, these words " and presented to the gover- 
nor to be approved and collated/' The House would not 
consent to this addition and Fletcher was so exasperated, that 
lie forthwith broke up the session, in an angry speech. 



34 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

After expressing his displeasure at their unmannerly denial, 
as he calls it, of the proposed amendment to the bill, he goes 
on. "I have the power of collating or suspending any minis- 
ter in my government, by their majesties letters patent, and 
whilst I stay here, I will take care, that neither heresy, sedi- 
tion, schism or rebellion be preached among you nor vice and 
profanity encouraged." &c. " You have sat a long time and 
have been a great charge to the country. Ten shillings a day 
is a large allowance. You have been always forward enough 
to pull down the fees of other officers. Why did you not 
think it expedient to reduce your own to a more moderate al- 
lowance?" &c. 

The violence of this man's temper is evident in all his trans- 
actions with the assembly ; and it can only be attributed to 
the ignorance of the times, that the members instead of assert- 
ing their rights, peaceably put up with his rudeness. They 
certatinly deserved better at his hands ; for the revenue estab- 
lished, last year, was at this session, continued for five years 
longer, during which period agreeably to the manner in.which 
public accounts were then kept, the governor was, in a great 
measure, independent. 

It appears, however, that Fletcher contrived soon after to 
get an act passed in some shape or other, for the support of a 
ministry ; but it did not comport with his high toned ideas, 
concerning the unity of a church establishment. We accor- 
dingly find, that on the 1 2th of April 1695, upon a petition of 
five church wardens and vestrymen of this city, the house 
gave it as their opinion, a that the vestrymen and church war- 
dens have power to call a dissentiug protestant minister, and 
that he is to be paid and maintained as the act directs." The 
intent of the petition was to refute the prevailing opinion, that 
the late act was made for the sole benefit of i piscopal clergy- 
men. 

It would be foreign to our purpose to detail the many bicker- 
ings, which during the administration of this man, took place 
between him and the assembly He was constantly demanding 
money for public purposes, of which he was always careful to 
appropriate a considerable portion to his own benefit and was 
so headstrong in his zeal to compel others to entertain the 
same opinions which he pretended to hold with respect to 
religion, that he became highly unpopular, and the inhabi- 
tants were greatly pleased at his recall. 

Richard Earl of Bellamont, who wa his successor, arrived 
on the 2d April 1698. His lordship was vested with the 
chief command of Massschusetts Bay and New Hampshire 



UNDER THE ENGLISH. 3 J 

as well as of this province, and as the charge of three colonies 
would necessarily involve him in a multiplicity of business, he 
brought with him his kinsman George Nonfan as lieutenant 
governor. His speech to the New Assembly convened on 
the 18th May nave the fullest evidence of his abhorrence of 
the late administration. "I cannot but observe," says he 
" what a legacy my predecessor has left me and what difficul- 
ties to struggle through with ; a divided people, an empty 
purse, a few miserable, naked, half starved soldiers, not half 
the number the king allowed pay for; the fortifications and 
even the governor's house very much out of repair, and, in a 
word, the whole government out of frame." He complained, 
likewise, of this province having been a noted receptacle of 
pirates and of the neglect and connivance of those, whose duty 
it was to have prevented it. Kid, the noted bucaneer then 
sailed triumphant on the ocean, and it is certain, that he as 
well as several of his associates were frequently supplied with 
provisions by the inhabitants of Long Island, who till, within 
a very few years, were so infatuated with the notion that the 
pirates buried great quantities of money along the coast, that 
there is scarcely a point of land or an island, which has not 
been dug to a great depth, in search of money ; but we have 
never learnt, that any one ever got as much, after all his toil 
and expense, as would pay for a good dinner. 

Soon after Lord Beliamont had entered on the duties of his 
office, some difficulties arose between the governor of Canada 
and him, respecting the Indians of the Five Nations. His 
lordship acted with great firmness. In a letter, which he 
wrote to his opponent, he staled, that the Five Nations had 
ever been considered as British subjects and that he would not 
suffer them to be insulted, and lie concludes in these words. 
" If it is necessary, I will arm every man in the provinces, un- 
der my government, to oppose you and redress the injury, 
which you may perpetrate against our Indians." Matters 
being settled with the French, the New Assembly convened 
March 21st 1699- Among the principal acts, passed at this 
session there was one in favour of the friends of Leisler, one 
against pirates, one to raise $3730 as a present to his lordship 
and $1250 for the lieutenant governor. The revenue act, was 
continued for six years longer and a very necessary law was 
passed for the regulation of elections. The assembly also, 
took into consideration sundry extravagant grants of land, 
which Fletcher had made to his favourites. Lord Beliamont 
who justly thought, that these large patents would greatly im- 
pede the settlement of the country, procured recommendato- 



36 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

ry instructions from the Lord's Justices for vacating them, 
which was now regularly sanctioned by a law. 

At the next meeting of the legislature in the year 1700, lit- 
tle business was done, and some part of that little abundantly 
shews that they knewnothingofthe rights of conscience. They 
passed an act for hanging every popish priest, who voluntarily 
came into the province. The alledged reason for this most gla- 
ring outrage on Christianity was that a great number of French 
Jesuits were constantly endeavouring to alienate the Indians 
from their attachment to the British. But were there no others 
employed in the same manner besides the French Jesuits ? 
If there were, the law should have been general and passed 
the same sentence of condemnation on every one guilty of the 
offence. 

It is probable, however, that notwithstanding his having 
sanctioned this iniquitous law, Lord Bellamont might have 
been of considerable service to the colony, as he was a man of 
polite manners and desirous to promote the general good ; 
but he died on the 5th of March 1701. His death was the 
source of new troubles; for Nan fan the lieutenant governor 
being then in Barbadoes, great disputes arose among the coun- 
sellors, concerning the person, w o should act as governor. 
A kind of interregnum, therefore, took place till the 19th 
of May, when Nanfan arrived and put an end to the contro- 
versy, by taking upon himself the supreme command. 

During the short administration of Nanfan, the greatest 
confusion existed in every department of government, in con- 
sequence of the existing animosity between, what was called, 
the Leislerian and the Antileislerian factions. Justice was 
out of the question, and every matter in controversy was de- 
cided according to the will of that party, which happened to 
have the ascendancy. 

The governor, who succeeded him was Lord Cornbury, son 
of the Earl of Clarendon. As he came to this province in 
very indigent circumstances, and hunted cut of England by 
his hungry creditors, he was bent upon squeezing as much 
money out of the purses of an indigent people, as he possibly 
could. His talents were, by no means, brilliant ; but in his 
zeal for the church, he was not surpassed by any of his prede-? 
cessors. With these qualifications he began his administra- 
tion, on the 3d of May 1 702. 

The following summer was remark-able for a dreadful mor- 
tality, which prevailed in the city and made a grand epoch in 
its history, distinguished by the "time of the great sickness." 
It was certainly " The yellow fever." and killed almost every 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 3/ 

one, who was seized with it. On this occasion lord Cornbury 
had his residence at Jamaica, Long Island, a pleasant village 
about twelve miles from the city. The inhabitants at that 
time, consisted partly of Dutch planters ; but mostly of emi- 
grants from New England. These people had erected a neat 
presbyterian church and had a handsome house and glebe for 
the use of their pastor. It appears that the town vote, by 
virtue of which the building had been erected, contained no 
clause to prevent its being hereafter engrossed by another sect. 
The Episcopal party, aware of this omission seized the edi- 
fice for themselves, by entering the church on Sunday, during 
the interval of divine service, while the minister and his con- 
gregation were in perfect security. This daring outrage led 
to considerable uneasiness amongst the people ; but in all 
these controversies, the governor abetted the episcopal zealots 
and harassed the others, by prosecutions, fines and imprison- 
ment. His conduct, in this affair, was indelicate and highly 
improper ; but we soon after find him guilty of an act so 
shamefully base, that no man could have perpetrated it with- 
out violence to every principle of generosity and justice. 
When he fled from the pestilence in the city to this village, 
Mr. Hubbard, the Presbyterian minister, lived in the best 
house in it. His lordship begged the loan of it for the use of 
his family and the worthy man put himself to great inconve- 
nience, in complying with the request. But, behold the in- 
gratitude of this detestable bigot In return for the benevolent 
conduct of Mr. Hubbard, he perfidiously delivered the par- 
sonage house into the hands of the Episcopal party, caus- 
ed the glebe to be divided into lots and farmed out for the ben- 
efit of the Episcopal church. This man, who like every other • 
persecutor was an absolute, stranger to the principles of mo- 
rality, honesty or religion, was so averse to every sect, except 
his own, that he endeavoured to prevent the ministers and 
schoolmasters of the Dutch church, then the most numerous 
in the colony from preaching or teaching without his license. 
Another instance of the persecuting spirit, which influenced 
the whole of Cornbury's administration, occurred in the year 
1707. The inhabitants of the city then consisted of Dutch 
and French Calvinists, some English Episcopalians, and a 
still smaller number of Presbyterians, who having no church 
used to assemble, at a private house every Lord's day, for pub- 
lic worship. Such were their circumstances, when two Pres- 
byterian ministers, the Rev. Messieurs Francis Mc'Kemie and 
John Hampton arrived here about the beginning of the year. 
The Dutch had consented, that Mr. M'Kemie might preach 

D 



3S THE CITY OF NEW-YOKK 

in their church ; but this the governor expressly prohibited 
He, therefore, preached in a private house on the ensuing sab* 
bath and Mr. Hampton, on the same day, officiated in the 
Presbyterian church at Newton Long Island. For preaching 
without his lordship's license, both these gentlemen were soon 
after arrested and committed to prison, in this city for six 
weeks and four days, when they were admitted to bail, till the 
next meeting of the supreme court. No bill was found against 
Mr. Hampton and Mr. Mc'Kemie, though acquitted by the 
•jury was, owing to the shameful partiality of the court, not 
discharged from his recognizance, till they had illegally extort- 
ed from him all the fees of his prosecution, which together 
with his expenses, exceeded two hundred dollars. 

Lord Cornbury was now daily losing the favour of the peo- 
ple, is persecution of the Presbyterians had greatly en- 
creased the number of his enemies, and the Dutch were afraid 
of his bigotted fury against them. His excessive avarice, his 
embezzlement of the public money, and his sordid refusal to 
pay his private debts, bore so heavily upon his reputation, that 
it was impossible for his adherents to support him. 

Nor was Cornbury less obnoxious to the people of New Jer- 
sey than to those of New- York. The assembly of that pro- 
vince made a complaint to Queen Ann respecting his bad con- 
duct, who forthwith divested him of his power and appointed 
lord Lovelace in his stead, declaring that she would not coun- 
tenance her nearest relations* in oppressing her people. His 
lordship was no sooner superseded, than hi- creditors threw 
him into prison, where he remained till the death of his father, 
when he was liberated and returned to England. 

During the administration of Lovelace, which was very 
short, nothing extraordinary oacurred. He died on the 5th 
of May 1709 and was succeeded by Richard Ingolsby the 
lieutenant governor who had exercised the government, seve- 
ral years before, upon the death of Colonel Sloughter. Du- 
ring the short time, that he was at the head of affairs, nothing 
occurred worthy of notice except a fruitless at'empt to reduce 
Canada under the British crown. Towards this enterprise, 
the province of New-Yoik contributed more than its propor- 
tion in men and money : but owing to some unexpected oc- 
currences, the fleet did not arrive in time, with the expected 
reinforcements, a general discontent took place throughout 
the country and the expedition was abandoned. Ingolsby 
was displaced on the 10th of April 1710 and Gerardus Beek- 

* Cornbury was Queen Anne's cousin. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 39 

man acted as governor till the arrival of Brigadier Hunter on 
the 14th of June following. 

Governor Hunter, who was a native of Scotland, had the 
honour of being intimately acquainted with Addison, Swift 
and many of the other literary characters of the day and it was 
probably owing to their interest, that he was advanced to this 
important office. He brought over with him about 3000 Pal- 
atines, who had fled to England from the rage of persecution 
in German' . Many of these people settled in this city, 
where they built a Lutheran church, on the same spot on 
which Grace church now stands. Part of them seated them- 
selves on Living ton's Manor, where they formed a village 
called the Camp, and some went into Pennsylvania, where 
they were soon after followed by many thousands of their 
countrymen. Queen Anne's liberality to these people was 
not more serviceable to them than to this city, and other pla- 
ces, where they took up their residence. They as well as 
their descendents who are very numerous are, in general, dis- 
tinguished for honesty industry and sobriety, and may be 
ranked amongst our best citizens. 

On the 2d July 1711, the assembly was convened in this 
city, when the governor laid before them the orders which he 
had received from the British ministry, respecting a third in- 
vasion of Canada. That body was so well pleased with the 
design, that, in a lew days thereafter, an act was passed for 
raising forces, the price of provisions was restricted to certain 
particular sums and bills of credit for forwarding the expedi 
tion were issued to the amount of $25,000. 

While these preparations were making in this city, the fleet 
consisting of twelve men of war, forty-six transports, with a 
fine train of artillery sailed from Boston for Canada, and a- 
bout a month afterwards, General Nicholson arrived at Alba- 
ny, at the head of 4000 men raised in this colony and in those 
of Connecticut and New Jersey, with about 6()0 Indians rais- 
ed by Colonel Schuyler. The fleet, however, ha only reach- 
ed the mouth of the river St. Lawrance, when it experienced 
a severe storm, in consequence of which eight transports con- 
taining 800 persons, were cast away. On the 14th September^ 
the fleet arrived at Spanish River Bay, where it was determin 
ed in a council of war to return home, without making any 
farther attempts ; and the news of the disaster having reached 
this city, the troops were recalled from Albany, without hav- 
ing effected any thing. 

Our public affairs never wore a more gloomy aspect than at 
this juncture. Great fears were entertained, that, in conse* 



40 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

quence of the late ill success against Canada, the minds of the 
Five Nations would be alienated from the British interest. 
The Senecas and Shawanas were also highly disaffected and 
it was generally apprehended, that they would attack the in- 
habitants on the Hudson River. An invasion by sea was ex- 
pected on this city, where the inhabitants had been alarmed 
in April preceding by an insurrection of the negroes, who in 
the prosecution of a plan to set fire to the city, had burnt 
down a house in the night and killed several persons engaged 
in extingnishing the flames, for which nineteen of them were 
executed. But distressed as the colony then was, the assen> 
bly were inflexibly averse to the establishment of a revenue, 
which in former cases, had been shamefully misapplied. The 
governor, at the next session, endeavoured to cajole them into 
a compliance with his wishes ; but the house strictly adhered 
to their former determination. Provoked at what he termed 
their obstinacy, and to put an end to the disputes between the 
two houses, he dissolved the assembly. 

Before the meeting of the next assembly, the peace was 
concluded between France and England by the treaty of 
Utrecht, on the 31st March 1713, in consequence of which 
all fears for the safety of the city subsided. Governor Hunter 
was greatly disappointed in his expectations respecting the re- 
sult of the election ; for though several new members were 
chosen, the majority were equally opposed to some of his fa- 
vourite measures, as the late assembly. They convened on 
the 27th of May 1713, and though not without some hesita- 
tion, passed a law for the support of government, to which as 
well as to that laying an excise on strong liquors, (the first of 
the kind, Which had been passed in this colony) the governor 
gave his assent. But the debts of the government remained 
unnoticed till the summer of the year 1714. Their amount 
was $78,000 to pay which, as it was then deemed a prodi- 
gious sum, recourse was had to the emission of bills of credit to 
that value. 

The news of Queen Anne's death having arrived in the en- 
suing fall, a dissolution of the assembly took place of course, 
and a new one met in May 1715, which continued only to the 
21st of July following ; for the governor being now determin- 
ed to to subdue those whom he could not allure, again dis- 
solved the assembly. He succeded in his design. The new 
House met on the 9th of June 1716, soon after which it be- 
came evident, from the harmony introduced between the two 
branches of the legislature, that a majority of the members 
were in the interest of the governor and they continued to bv 
so, during the remaining part of his administration. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 4? 

On the 24th June 1719, Governor Hunter delivered his 
farewell address to the assembly, from whieh I select the 
following interesting passage. " 1 look with pleasure" says 
he " on the present quiet and peaceable state of the p< ople 
here ; whilst I reflect on that, in which I found them at my ar- 
rival. As the very name of party or faction seems to be for" 
gotten, may it, for ever, lie buried in oblivion and no strife 
ever happen among you, but that laudable emulation, who 
shall approve himself the most dutiful subject and the most 
useful member of a well established and flourishing communi- 
ty, of which you, gentlemen, have given a happy example, 
which I hope v ill be followed by future assemblies." 

The house in their answer, which was written by their 
speaker Robert Livingston Esq. and Colonel Morris of Moris- 
ania and which was subscribed by all the members, shewed 
that they were unwilling to be outdone by his Excellency in 
point of courtesy and contains so favourable a testimonial of 
his good conduct, as few governors have had the honour of 
carrying home with them. 

The governor having left the province 31st July 1719? the 
chief command devolved on Peter Schuyler, the eldest member 
of the council. During his short administration, he behaved 
with great moderation and integrity ; but nothing occurred in 
regard to this city which is worthy of notice. 



CHAPTER VI. 

From the arrival of Governor Burnet in 1720 till the Negro 
Plot in the year 1739. 

William Burnet Esq. entered on his office as governor 
of this province, 17th September, 1720. He was a son of the 
celebrated bishop of that name, whose active exertions in pro- 
moting the revolution, which placed King William on the 
throne, rendered him very conspicuous in the history of Great 
Britain. He was a well bred scholar, sprightly, and social in 
his disposition, averse to pomp, and studious, by every means 
in his power, of rendering himself agreeable to the people. 
No governor before him did so much business in chancery as 
he. Indeed, he seemed peculiarly fond of attending to his of- 
fice as chancellor ; but in the discharge of his duty, he dis- 
played a foible very unsuitable for a judge, viz. that he resolv- 
ed too precipitately ; for he used to say of himself " I act first 

D2 



42 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

ancfthink afterwards." Although he began under the most 
favourable auspices, his conduct in this court, as well as seve- 
ral other circumstances, w ich afterwards occurred, tended 
to render his administration very unpopular, towards its close. 

Previous to his leaving England, he held the office of comp- 
troller of the customs in London, which he resigned to Briga- 
dier Hunter, as the latter did the government of this and the 
colony of New Jersey to him. Mr. Burnet's acquaintance 
with that gentleman gave him an excellent opportunity of be- 
coming acquainted with the state of affairs in these colonies 
even previous to his arrival. Those who had been appointed 
by his predecessor were, with few exceptions, retained in of- 
fice, by Mr. Burnet and Mr. Morris the chief justice, Dr. Cad- 
wallader Colden and Mr. Alexander, two Scotch gentlemen all 
of them eminent for the purity of their morals, literary talents, 
and thorough knowledge of public affairs, were his principal 
advisers. These gentlemen as well as Mr. Van Home whose 
daughter he married, were raised to the council board. 

As the confidence, which the public reposed in Mr. Burnet, 
at first seemed to be unbounded, business went on with the 
greaest harmony and nothing intervened to disturb the general 
trsnquiility Several acts of great importance were passed, the 
most remarkable of which was one " for prohibiting the sale of 
Indian goods to the French " This was a favourite act of the 
governor, and though very advantageous to the province, gave 
rise to an opposition against him, which continued through the 
whole of his administration. Mr. Burnet's scheme was to draw 
the Indian trade into the hands of the province and to obstruct 
the communication of the French, with its Indian allies, both 
of which were objects of great consequence to the peace and 
prosperity of this and the neighbouring colonies ; but howev- 
er beneficial the effects of this law might have been, men 
actuated by interested motives, particularly the importers of 
goods from Europe were greatly prejudiced against it and 
from the time that it was enacted, did every thing in their pow- 
er, to thwart the views of the governor. 

A circu nstance took place in this city, in the year 1724, 
which rendered the governor still more unpopular. . A dis- 
pute had arisen amongst the members of the French Protest- 
ant church, concerning their two pastors the Rev. Messieurs 
Rou and Moulinaars. The governor unwisely interfered in 
his capacity of chancellor and supported the cause of the for- 
mer, although it seems to have been then the general opinion, 
that Moulinaars had equity on his side and that the governor 
decided in favour of Mr. Rous, merely because he deemed 
him to be a man of superior talents. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 4<! 

All the opponents of Mr. Rou were displeased with the 
governor, and amongst these, Mr. Delancey, a man who had 
been by far the most generous benefactor of the French 
Church, was the most considerable for his wealth and popu- 
larity. The governor had before this time, considered him as 
his enemy, because he had opposed the law for the prohibition 
of the sale of Indian goods to the French, and this led him to 
the commission of a personal indignity against Mr. Delan- 
cey, for which it is impossible to form any apology. This 
gentleman was returned as a member of assembly for this city 
and came forward to take his seat, in September 1725. On 
his offering to take the usual oaths, the governor objected, al- 
ledgingj that he was not a British subject. From his answers, 
it appeared, that he had been naturalized in England and that 
he had served in several former assemblies. The house, after 
having obtained the opinion of the chief justice, decided in fa- 
vour of Mr. Delancey. Thus even, at this early period, when 
the rights of legislative bodies were, by no means, so well as- 
certained as they have been since the revolution, the conduct 
of the governor was deemed unconstitutional and an invasion 
of the rights of the assembly, who claimed the exclusive privi- 
lege of determining the qualifications of their own members. 

In September 1727 a new assembly met, consisting of mem- 
bers, who were, in general, disaffected to the governor. The 
long continuance of the last assembly, the clamours excited by 
several of his late decrees in chancery, the affair of the French 
church and especially the prohibition of the trade with Cana- 
da, were the causes, to which the loss of his interest is to be 
ascribed. 

Sundry resolutions were passed relative to the court of chan- 
cery, the purport of which was that the said court, as lately es- 
tablished, rendered the liberties and property of the subjects 
extremely precarious, that by the violence of its measures, 
some had been ruined, others obliged to leave the colony and 
many restrained in it by imprisonment, or excessive bail ex- 
acted from them not to depart, and that the exorbitance of the 
fees was the greatest oppression, which had ever been expe- 
rienced in the colony. The governor no sooner heard of these 
proceedings than he dissolved the assembly. 

In April 1728, he was appointed to the chief command of 
the province of Massachusetts, when he was succeeded here 
by John Montgomerie Esq. Judge Smith in his " History of 
New-York" represents Mr. Burnet as an excellent governor 
and says that it was the influence of a faction, which rendered 
his removal necessary for the sake of the public tranquillity. 



44 T£E CITY OP NEW-YORK 

But facts are stubborn things. The governors sent from 
Great Britain to rule over this country, were, in general men 
of very doubtful character, and it is possible, that Mr. Burnet 
may have been one of the least exceptionable. 

In the year 1725, a News Paper entitled " The York Ga- 
zette, being the first, which had been published in the colo- 
ny made its appearance in this city. It was a weekly paper 
and was then the only one, not only in this ; but perhaps in 
any of the British provinces (now the United States.) In 
this city, there are now nine daily papers, several published 
twice a week, and a number weekly, all of which as well as 
several periodical publications, I shall hereafter particularly 
mention, under the head of Lit rary Establishments. 

During the administration of Mr. Montgomery, which was 
of short continuance, as he died on the 1st of July 1731, noth- 
ing ot great importance occurred. The object most worthy 
of notice, which was effected in his time was the adjustment 
of along protracted dispute between New-York, and Connec- 
ticut respecting their boundaries. This was settled in an ami- 
cable manner in the year 1731 ; when a tract of land, lying on 
the Connecticut side, consisting of above 60,000 acres, which, 
from its figure, was called The Oblo g was ceded to New 
York, as an equivalent for some lands surrendered to Connec- 
ticut along Long Island sound. Mr. Montgomerie, likewise 
graned a new charter to this city, on the 15th January 1730. 

As Montgomerie was a man of a kind and benevolent dis- 
position and confined himself solely to the common acts of 
government, public affairs were conducted with the greatest 
harmony and his death was greatly lamented. 

On his decease, the chief command devolved upon Rip Van 
Dam Esq. the oldest memherof the council Nothing of im- 
portance to the city occurred, during his administration, which 
ended 1st August 1732, when William Cosby Esq. arrived 
with a commission to govern this and the province of New 
Jersey. 

Governor Cosby commenced his administration, under 
very favourable circumstances. The attempts, which had been 
made in the British parliament, the preceding year, for the en- 
couragement of the sugar colonies and the consequent de- 
pression of the American trade, had occasioned great appre- 
hension in this province for the safety of her commerce. 
Cosby, while in England, had been active in his opposition 
to those measures. No person, therefore, could have been 
selected for this government, who could have been more pop- 
ular than he. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 45 

The assembly having met on the 19th August 1732, agree- 
ably to proclamation, immediately voted that an address 
should be presented to his Excellency, congratulating him on 
his safe arrival and thanking him, for his opposition, to the at- 
tempts in favour of the sugar islands. The governor was 
greatly nattered with this address and in his answer, took no 
small credit to himself for the share he had taken in the defeat 
of this bill. He, likewise, plainly intimated his confidence in 
receiving a revenue, in as full and ample a manner as had 
been granted by former assemblies. The house, in its ans- 
wer, was. profuse in terms of respect; but cautious in com- 
mitting itself as to revenue or money matters. Their reluc- 
tance in this respect was, by no means surprising, as the colo- 
ny had much reason to complain of its burthens. The wars 
between France and England had almost drained its resour- 
ces and subjected it to a very heavy debt. 

Amongst the taxes, which existed at that time, there was 
one, which, at the present day, will appear rather extraordi- 
nary. I mean that on wigs. " This tax" says Mr. Smith 
was undoubtedly a wise and prudent measure. A custom had 
been introduced for young men, and even boys, to conceal 
their own hair, under large and spacious wigs. To repress 
a custom so absurd or to make it an object of revenue had 
been the object of the legislature." For this fashion, which 
instead of ornamenting the countenance, greatly disfigured it ; 
it would be difficult to assign any reason : but many of us 
have seen fashions equally ridiculous, in our own times. For- 
ty years have not yet elapsed, since gentlemen, who wished 
to dress a la mode, wore their hair tied and descending as low 
as the small of their backs and if they had not enough of their 
own, the deficiency was made up by an addition of false hair. 
Toppees, to a considerable height, over the forehead, and 
large side locks, handsomely rolled up, with much plaiting 
and curling completed the whole. It was then grand times 
for the hair dressers ; for however urgent a gentleman's busi- 
ness might be, it was essentially necessary that he should be 
under the hands of one of these knights of the comb for near- 
ly half an hour, before he could make what was deemed a de- 
cent appearance. \lthough many absurdities are still to be 
seen in the garb of those, who consider themselves as people of 
fashion, yet as it respects the head, its dress is, by far, more 
becoming than it was in these times and occasions little or no 
trouble. 

In the year 1732, the first stage between Boston and this 
< tty was established. It started from each of these places on- 



46 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

\y once a month and it required fourteen days to perform the 
journey. A stage now starts daily from Boston as well as 
from this city and arrives at the place of its destination in thir- 
ty-six hours 

But to return to Mr. Cosby. He had not been long in the 
gubernatorial chair, before altercations took place between 
him and the assembly. To enumerate these would be diffi- 
cult and of no great interest to my readers, I shall, therefore, 
only specify a few. Complaints as heretofore were made 
against the court of chancery as being illegally instituted. 
The fees extorted by public officers and by practitioners of 
law were represented as exorbitant ; demands for money were 
often made which, in several, instances, were not complied 
with, wirhout considerable hesitation and an assembly, was 
continued for several years notwithstanding many efforts, 
which were made for a new election. With high opinions of 
prerogative and decided hostility to free legislation he, at last, 
became, odious to the colony in general, and even to his best 
friends. 

There was one act passed, during his administration, which 
ought not to be omitted. At the ession of the legislature in 
1734, the people called Quakers were restored to a right, for 
which they had been struggling for a number of years. Some 
of them had been prevented from voting in Westchester coun- 
ty, at an election for representatives, because they would not 
take the oaths prescribed by law The assembly took up the 
subject and passed an act granting to them the same rights 
and privileges as were enjoyed by people of that denomina- 
tion in England. 

Amongst Cosby's last acts, was his suspending Van Dam 
from his seat at the council board. He was senior counsellor 
and as such, upon the death of the governor, would have be- 
come president of the colony. To prevent this, Cosby conven- 
ed the council in his bed chamber and suspended Van Dam. 
He died on the 7th March 1736. 

Upon the death of Cosby, the council were immediately 
convened, when it was proposed, that George Clarke, the se- 
nior counsellor next after Van Dam should assume the reins 
of government. The majority were in favour of Clarke ; but 
a powerful party supported the cause of Van Dam, whose sus- 
pension from the council they declared to be arbitrary and il- 
legal. Considerable animosity took place between the two par- 
ties ; but this unpleasant state of affairs was terminated, on the 
30th of October following, when Mr. Clarke received his com* 
mission from England as Lieutenant governor. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 4? 

A new assembly, composed of members, more disposed to 
assert the rights of their constituents than to submit to the usur- 
pations of the crown, met 15th June 1737- Five days after 
the commencement of the session, an address to the Lieuten- 
ant governor was presented. It is well worthy of notice and 
forms an era in New-York legislation, which is highly impor- 
tant. Hitherto the governors had too often led the ministry 
to believe, that the assembly was a body of men, ignorant of 
legislation, boisterous on some occasions ; but easily brought 
to compliance. The government had yet to learn, that there 
were men in this province, whose patriotism would have done 
honour to the best days of Greece and Rome. 

The address commences with recognizing some of the vital 
principles of a good government. It affirms, that none ought 
to represent the people, but those, who are fairly chosen by 
them and that elections ought to be frequent, as experience 
had shewn, the danger of trusting the same men too long with 
power. One paragraph in this address deserves to be trans- 
mitted to posterity. In speaking on the subject of the reve- 
nue, the assembly adopt this bold and energetic language. 
" We, therefore, beg leave to tell your Honour that you are 
not to expect, that we either will raise sums unfit to be rais- 
ed, or put that which we shall raise into the power of a gov- 
ernor to misapply, if we can prevent it ; nor shall we make 
up any other deficiencies, than what ice conceive are fit and 
just to be paid, or continue what support or revenue ice shall 
raise for any longer time than one year ; nor do we think it 
convenient to do even that, until such laws are passed, as we 
conceive necessary for the safety of the inhabitants of this 
colony." In fine, the whole address is a production honoura- 
ble to the times, in which it was formed and evinces the proud, 
unbroken spirit of the colonists, incapable of being soothed 
or awed into submission by the arts or power of their rulers. 
The legislature, at this time, began to perceive its importance 
in the scale of government and possessed the germ of that 
independence and freedom, which has since ripened and dis- 
played itself in securing the liberties of the country and in 
ultfmately establishing the British colonies (now the United 
States of America) as a free, sovereign and independnet na- 
tion. 

But though this assembly appe r to have !;ad correct views 
with respect to the rights of the people, in general : their ideas 
in regard to religious liberty were illiberal and highly intole- 
rant. They resolved, hat none of the Jewish profession 
could vote for representatives, or be admitted as witnesses 



4B THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

touching any contested election. The fact is that the Jews a? 
well as the Roman Catholics had long been peculiarly obnox- 
ious to the colonists, and it was n>t till after our glorious revo- 
lution, thai they were placed on the same footing with their 
fellow citizens of other religious denominations. 

The continuance of our assemblies had been unlimited, till 
the political struggles, which arose in Cosby's administra- 
tion, compelled his successor Mr. Clarke, in the year 1737? 
to pass the act for restricting their duration to three years. 
His assent, however, was given with a bad grace. But, as 
he fully believed, that, this law could not obtain the royal as- 
sent, its character and views giving, in his opinion, the people 
too great a share in the administration of government he gave 
it his sanction. In 1739, the crown, as he had expected, re- 
pealed the law, and it was surmised at the time, that he had 
been instrumental, in bringing about this measure. But al- 
though this law, in consequence of the intervention of the roy- 
al prerogative, did not answer the salutary purpose, for which 
it was intended, yet its strenuous advocate, Mr. Morris of 
Westchester, deserved well of his country, for his unremitted 
exertions in getting it passed. Soon after the arrival of George 
Clinton as governor in September 1743, an act was passed for 
septennial assemblies, which it is believed continued in force 
till the revolution. 

On the 23d of October 1739? war was declared by England 
against Spain. Soon after information of this event had ar- 
rived here, application was made by Captain Norris of the 
ship Tartar, then lying in this harbour, for liberty to impress 
thirty seamen, who he said, were much wanted to man his 
vessel. The Lieutenant governor and council ordered the 
mayor to cause the impressment to be made ; but that gentle- 
men with a firmness, which did him great honour, perempto- 
rily refused to obey and the council prudently declined to take 
any further measures to comply with the captain's requisition. 
Thus by the firmness of this worthy mayor, the impressment 
of seamen, one ot the greatest oppressions experienced by that 
truly valuable class of men, in Great Britain and Ireland was 
expressly prohibilod in this colony. 



S7NDER THE BRITISH. 4!) 



CHAPTER VII. 

From the commencement of the Negro Plot in 1741, to the 
arrival of Sir Charles Hardy as Governor in 1755. 

An occurrence now took place, which greatly alarmed the 
inhabitants of this city. Certain circumstances had been dis- 
closed to the magistrates, which though not ful y developed 
till some time afterwards, were calculated to rouse the resent- 
ment of the public against the unfortunate Africans, who were 
here in a state of slavery 

A robbery, which had been committed at the house of Ro- 
bert Hogg, a merchant in this city, on 28th February J 741 
seemed to have led to the discovery of what was afterwards 
ca led the Negro Plot. One Mary Burton an indented ser- 
vant to John Hughson, a man of infamous charactei, in whose 
house slaves were in the habit of drinking, gaming and of se- 
creting the goods which they had stolen, was the instrument 
in the ands of the magistrates, for the detection of the offen- 
ders. On the 8th March following, a fire broke out in the 
government house at Fort George, which stood, on that spot, 
which is now called ihe battery. The said house, together 
with the chapel and se eral adjacent buildings were consum- 
ed. A week after, another fire broke out at the Soulh West 
end of the city. Both of these were, at first, supposed to be 
accidental. But about a week after the last fire, another 
broke out in a store, towards the East end of the town. 
Three days after a fourth alarm was given, which was occa- 
sioned by some hay being on fire in a cow stable. The fire 
was soon suppressed ; but before the people could get to their 
respective homes, there was a fifth alarm, in a place at no 
great distance. It appeared, that fire had been placed be- 
tween two beds in the loft of a Kitchen, where a negro usually 
slept The next morning coals were found under a hay stack 
near a coach house nd stables in Broadway. All these cir- 
cumstances, having occurred in quick succession, induced a 
belief, that some designing persons intended to destroy the 
city by fire. What strengthened the belief was a seventh 
alarm the next day in a house opposite the fort garden, an 
eighth occasioned by a fire breaking out in a house near the 
Fly market, and again on the same afternoon a ninth occur- 
ring in a store house. This strange coincidence of circum- 
stannces seemed to render it certain that some, if not all 



50 SHE CITY OF NEW-YOHK 

these fires were the effect of design and it was soon suspected 
tha the negroes were the perpetrators. 

One Quacko a negro was said to have made use of some 
mysterious language indicating his knowledge of a plot. He 
and several others were apprehended and closely interrogat- 
ed ; but they made no discovery. Mary Burton, who had 
been apprehended as a witness, relative to the robbery at Mr. 
Hogg's, gave the grand Jury reason to believe, that she was 
also privy to the design of setting fire to the city. After some 
difficulty, she stated, that meetings of negroes were held at 
the house of Hughson her master; that their plan was to 
burn the fort and city ; that one Caesar, a negro was to be 
governor and Hughson king ; that they meant to destroy the 
whites, and that the meetings at her master's house generally 
consisted of twenty or thirty negroes. Upon this evidence, 
many of these poor wretches, were committed to prison. 

One Arthur Price, a servant accused of stealing goods be- 
longing to the Lieutenant governor, likewise, became infor- 
mer. Being a prisoner himself, and having access to the ne- 
groes, who were in confinement, he received or pretended to 
have received from them much information. He was after- 
wards employed by the magistrates to hold private confe- 
rences with them, and to endeavour to persuade them Jo 
make confessions; and in this business he was very ex- 
pert. Many of his stories were of so romantic a description, 
as to excite suspicion of their truth; yet such, at that time, 
was the state of the public mind, that the more extravagant 
the tale, the more readily was it believed. 

A white woman, a common prostitute, who was familiar 
even with negroes, of the name of Peggy Salinburgh, likewise, 
declared, that she could make great discoveries. The magis- 
trates eagerly hastened to take her examination, in conse- 
quence of which warrants were issued for the apprehension of 
many other negroes, not before implicated. Informers were 
now rapidly increasing The magistrates were unceasingly 
engaged, and the grand jury daily presenting indictments 
against the parties accused. To be inculpated by Mary Bur- 
ton, Arthur 'Price or Peggy Salingburgh seems to have been 
sufficient to authorize the conviction of any one. It cannot, 
however, be disputed that some of these fires were the effects 
of design ; but there is much reason to doubt the nature and 
extent of the plot ascribed to the negroes. , 

It is evident, that Mary Burton was who'ly unworthy of 
credit; for independent of the absurdity of many of her sto- 
ries, she on the 22d April, at her first examination declared 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 51 

upon oath, that she never saw any white person in company, 
when they talked of burning the city, except her master, her 
mistress and Peggy Salinburgh ; yet on the 23th of June fol- 
lowing, she deposed, that one John Ury, a catholic priest, who 
was a white man was often at Hughson's, and that the negroes 
talked in his presence about setting fire to the city and killing 
the whites. She afterwards, on the 14th July following, swore 
that one Corry a dancing master, also a white man, used to 
come to Hughson's and talk with the negroes about the plot. 
Yet on such evidence, Ury, who had been previously commit- 
ted, under the act against popish priests, was convicted and 
executed. With his last breath, he solemnly denied thn charge; 
but he wa\ a catholic priest and the public prejudice was so 
strong, that it required very little more to ensure his condem- 
nation. The infamous Mary Burton, however, received the 
hundred pounds, which had been promised as a reward for 
discovering the persons concerned in the plot. 1 shall con- 
clude this article with some remarks, which natur ily grow out 
of the subject. 

One hundred and fifty-four negroes were committed to pri- 
son, of whom fourteen were burnt at the stake, eighteen hang- 
ed, seventy-one transported and the rest pardoned or dis- 
charged for want of proof. Twenty white persons were com* 
mitted, of whom two only, John Hughson and John Ury, were 
executed. \t this time, this city contained about 1 2,000 in- 
habitants of whom one sixth were slaves. If a plot, in fact, 
existed for the destruction of the city, and if that plot was con- 
ducted by Ury, it certai ly betrayed greater imbecility ©fun* 
derstanding nnd want of arrangement than • ould have been 
expected from a man of erudition, and great knowledge of 
the worl . 

t is wor-hy of remark, that Corry, the dancing mister, was 
discharged for want of proof It seems, that Mary Burton's 
testitnony began to be doubted, at last, and wll it might ; for 
had the prosecutions continued much longer, she would very 
probably have accused a great portion of the whites. Daniel 
Horsmander, £sq one of the judges of the Supreme court, 
published at the time, a history of this conspiracy and labour- 
ed hard to prove its existence and extent. But it is evident, 
that the hostility to the Catholic religion, which w s then so 
prevalent, gave his mind a bias very unfriendly to the fair 
developement of truth, or to the impartial examination of 
facts and circumstances. The negroes were without defence, 
all the counsellor in the city being arranged against them. 
Their want of education and total ignerance made them the 



j2 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

easy victims of craft and imposition ; and it is almost certain « 
that the hope of life and the promise of pardon, induced some 
of them, who were not guilty, to make confessions. It must, 
however, be admitted, that there was great reason to believe a 
plot existed, though, by no m ans to that extent, which was 
generally supposed. When the danger appeared to be over, 
a day of public thanksgiving was appointed by the lieutenant 
governor, which was devoutly observed by the inhabitants. 

In September following, the assembly was opened by a 
speech from the Lieutenant governor, in which amongst other 
topics, he urged them to raise a revenue for a term of years, 
as former assemblies had done and not to limit its duration to 
one year Here, however, he laboured in vain, as they received 
his recommendation with contempt. They also, resolved, that 
they would not subject the colony to any additional taxes, to 
aid the contemplated expedition against the Spanish settle- 
ments, thus plainly intimating, that it was the province of the 
crown to support its own wars. 

About this period, the growing: importance of the legislature 
of the colony began to be perceived, in almost every strug- 
gle with its governors, it was successful, in fact, the purse 
and the sword were in the hands of the assembly. Public mo- 
nies could no longer be misapplied ; for the revenue being 
limited to one year, the governor was under the necessity of 
convening the legislature annually The democratic branch 
of the colonial government had placed the governor and other 
officers in a state of dependence on its votes and measures ; 
for not a shilling could be drawn from the treasury withour its 
consent. This was peculiarly galling to the e ecutive, as it 
stripped him of that patronage, which he deemed so essential 
to the support of his administration. 

In the summer and autumn of 1 74 1 and 1742 this city was 
visited with a disorder, similar in many of its prominent symp- 
toms, to that, which is now denominated Yellow fever. Dr. 
Colden, who has been already mentioned, as a gentleman well 
acquainted with the affairs of the province, particularly of 
those whi h respected Indian affairs and who, in the year 
1727? had published a valuable work, entitled " The Bistort/ 
of the Five* Indian nations depending on the province of 
"New-York^ in America, was, at the time of this awful calamity, 
distinguished as a highly eminent physician. He drew up an 
interesting account of the disease, carefully pointed out those 

* These were afterwards denominated The Six Nations, another 
oibe haying been taken into the confederacy. 



UNDER THE BRITISH, 53 

local circumstances, which existed in different parts of the 
city, as evident causes of adding to the violence of the 
distemper and strongly recommended the most effectual means 
for their removal. The thanks of the Common Council were 
presented to hira,and the measures, which he suggested for the 
improvement of the general health were adopted and followed 
by the most salutary effects. is account of the epidemic of 
1741 and 1741*, which he afterwards improved and enlarged 
may be found in the American Medical and Philosophical Re- 
gister, Vol; 1. 

If we candidly take a view of the administration of governor 
Clarke, we find little to distinguish it from that of h s predeces- 
sor ; at least, in one important particular, viz. that of a pertina 
cious adherence to the royal prerogative, from which cause, al- 
though he was very assiduous in his endeavours to promote the 
interest of the colony, he became very unpopular The arrival 
of George Clinton, therefore, as governor on the 23d Sept. 
1743 diffused general joy amongst the inhabitants. They had 
heard the most favourable accounts of his liberality and talents 
and had been induced to believe, that his whole attention 
would be devoted to the interests of the colony, and his first 
address to the legislature tended to confirm these favourable 
impressions. 

About this time, King James II then known by the name of 
the Pretender, who resided in France, having learnt thakthere 
were great dissentions in the English parliament, was induced 
to believe, that a powerful party, in Great Britain and Ireland 
were ready to rise in hi favour. To the French court, he 
made known his sentiments, and urged that an arm should 
be raised for the invasion of his former dominions, assuring 
; them, that he would thereby be soon enabled to reascend the 
; throne, which he had abdicated. The French ministry rea- 
[ dily entered into his views, the subjugation of Great Britain 
being then, as it has often been since, one of their most favour- 
ite objects. An expedition, consisting of 15,000 men was, 
therefore, forthwith resolved on. War was declared against 
England 20th May 1744, and on the 31st of the same month, 
England issued a similar declaration against Fiance. The 
notice of transactions at so grea a distance from this city may, 
at first view, appear foreign to the purpose ; but the wars of 
the mother country never taile to involve her American col- 
onies, and this city in particular, in great distress. 

To excite the loyalty of the colonists, at such a crisis, it was 
only necessary to inform them that their civil and religious lib- 
erties were threatened by the pope and the pretender. The 

E 2 



54 frHE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

alarm almost immediately pervaded the whole community and 
every exertion was made to avert the impending danger. An 
address to tlae governor replete with sen iments of loyalty 
to the king and of the most steadfast adherence to the protes-' 
tant religion was reported by Colonel Morris of Westches- 
ter and immediately adopted by the Assembly. This gentle- 
man though hostile to the court, could not resist the powerful 
influence, which the evils, with which they were threatened 
had produced on the minds of the people. The governor's 
speech was mild and unassuming and the nswer of the house 
Complimentary. 

During this session of the legislature, the public business 
was conducted with the greatest harmon}'. A bill for the re* 
lief of imprisoned debtors was passed. The militia was pi? 
under better regulations. The credit of the paper currency 
was supported by law and sundry ot er bills of great impor- 
tance to the colony were enacted. All objects of dispute, be- 
tween the different departments of government were now ab- 
sorbed in the more important considerations of warfare and 
defence. Indeed so ardent were the inhabitants in support of 
ihe crown, against the influence of the French and the pre- 
tender, that they were not, at that time, inclined to examine 
very minutely into the conduct of their rulers. The assembly, 
in their address to the governor, declared, that they were high-, 
ly sensible of the happiness, that they enjoyed under his ma- 
jesty's government, and that their civil and religious rights. 
next under God, depended on the protestant succession in his 
illustrious house. They stated, that they would cheerfully 
Concur in every measure for the welfare of the colony, which 
they well knew, that his excellency had greatly at heart. 
And they evinced their sincerity, by (he earnestness, with 
which they pursued the system of defensive measures. 

In July 1744, the governor advised the house to attend to 
the state of the fortifications in this city, in Albany, Oswego 
and the garrisons throughout the colony. He also exhorted 
them to provide against attacks upon the coast and to take 
measures for guarding the colonial commerce against the de- 
predations of the enemy. He regretted the heavy expense, 
to which the people would be subject, but he trusted, that the 
important objects in view, viz. the protection of their civil and* 
religious liberties, would be an adequate compensation. 

On t is application the assembly resolved unanimously, that 
as his majesty was engaged in war with France and Spain^they 
would provide for putting the colony in such a posture of de- 
snqe^ as would, on the one hand, discourage the enemy frorr 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 55 

making an attack, and, on the other, would excite the inhabi- 
tants to make a vigorous defence, in case such an attack should 
be made. In conformity with this resolution, they made 
great preparations for the war and voted liberal supplies. 

A bill was brought in, requiring all persons in the colony to 
take the oaths enacted in Great Britain for the security of gov-, 
ernment and the protestant religion. Mr Jones from Queen's 
county, opposed the bill, as he contended, that though the 
loyalty of the colony had never been doubted, it seemed to 
question their allegiance to the king and their attachment to 
the protestant religion, a reflection which he deemed highly 
unjust. Notwithstanding his exertions, the bill was carried by 
fourteen votes to seven ; but the people called Quakers were 
allowed to affirm, instead of swearing. 

In the meantime, the war had occasioned considerable 
alarm along the frontiers. The British fur trade, from which 
great profit had been made, was almost annihilated. The 
Indian traders at Oswego abandoned the place and the Indians 
themselves began to look to the French for protection, be- 
lieving, that the English were too weak or too pusilanimous 
to defend them. An attack upon Oswego was, likewise, ex* 
pected. The assembly resolved, that the garrison, in that 
place, should be reinforced, without delay, and that the ex- 
pense of defending it should be defrayed by the colony. Vig* 
orous measures were, every where adopted to give the enemy 
a warm reception. Stephen \ r an Rensselaer Esq. had engag- 
ed to furnish fire wood and candles for all the garrisons in Al- 
bany county, and the assembly voted the necessary supplies. 
Large sums were also appropriated to other purposes, so that 
thev appeared to set no bounds to their loyalty and zeal. 

Thus far, the Governor and assembly had acted in concert : 
but the time had now arrived, when the latter actuated by a 
desire to promote the public good, deemed it expedient to op- 
pose the measures recommended by the former. The Eng- 
lish ministry had given express orders to the governor to car- 
ry hostilities into Canada, the reduction ©f which had been 
always viewed by them as an object of the greatest impor- 
tance and they considered the present war as an excellent op- 
portunity for gaining the so long wished for prize. 

Accordingly, at the March session, in 1745, the governoi 
informed the assembly, that the province of Massachusett- had 
formed a plan for the invasion of the French settlements in 
Canada and earnestly recommended, that they would join in 
the enterprise When this speech was taken into conside- 
ration, contrary to parliamentary usage, they neither voted ai*. 



.j(j THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

address nor any answer. They determined, on defending the 
colony and securing the friendship of the Indians ; but deem- 
ed, that the conquest of Canada was a business which exclu- 
sively belonged to the crown. This sentiment was highly of- 
fensive to the governor, who had sent assurances to the minis- 
try, that the intended invasion of Canada was here a very 
popular measure. On the 14th May 1745, he sent for tire as- 
sembly, whom, after upbraiding with rudeness, in not answer- 
ing his speech and neglect in nut attending to sundry other 
matters of importance, he dissolved. This was the first open 
disagreement between the assembly and Mr. Clinton ; and 
there is no difficulty in tracing it to its cause. The taxes on 
the colony were already too great and the house were unwil- 
ling to increase them, unless for the sole purpose of defence. 

Other subjects of irritation followed soon after ; but of these 
I only deem it necessary to mention one viz. that his Excel- 
lency's ride was sensibly mortified, at the decided tone as- 
sumed by the house, as it related to the government, in gene- 
ral. In conveying his sentiments he makes no attempt to 
conceal his displeasure; but expresses himself in the follow- 
ing indignant terms. " You have ventured to take upon you 
the assignment of the plans for erecting batteries in this city ; 
to direct the number of guns to be placed upon them and to 
order the issue of gunpowder, provided for public use, with- 
out consulting me, which, in effect is assuming the adminis- 
tration of the government, and wresting his majesty's authori- 
ty out of my hands. Thus from an invincible untowarriness 
on the one hand, and an inordinate thirst of power on the 
other, you have become, as it were, a dead weight against the 
other branches of the legislature." 

Yet, if the proceedings of the assembly be duly considered, 
it is evident, that these severe censures were far from being 
merited. They had been lavish of their resources imposed 
heavy burdens on their constituents to assist in the prosecu- 
tion of the war, at vast expense^ placed the city of New-York, 
as well as the colony, in eeneral, in as good a postur of 
defence as was then practicable. " No inordinate thirst of 
power" had influenced them in their deliberations, unless, 
that may be termed so, which tended to check the waste 
of public monies. If they were charged with "invincible 
untowardness," it was only in resisting the overgrown influ- 
ence f the crown and of its ministers and " if they ad assum- 
ed the administration of the jjovernment," it wa^ to protect the 
subjects from oppressive taxation and to secure the people from 
tyranny and despotism. Thus even, at this early period, 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 57 

there were men, who, without fear, could meet the frowns of 
a government whose lust of power and insatiable ambition 
could involve in ruin the very people, whom it was bound, by 
every sacred tie, to foster and protect. 

In June 1745, the famous- harbour of Louisburg was sur- 
rendered to the British fleet, under Commodore Warren, aided 
by some troops sent on by Massachusetts Towards this ex- 
pedition. New- York had, likewise, contributed $7500. But 
while this accession was made to his majesty's dominions, at 
a distance, our legislature had abundanct of business to keep 
them engaged, at home. Intelligence had been received, that 
Oswego would be speedily attacked by 1 600 Frenchmen and 
Indians. The inhabitants of the city uf Albany and of the 
adjacent country were greatly alarmed for their safety. As 
many men, therefore, as were deemed necessary for their re- 
lief were forthwith drafted and sent on. But, in various oth- 
er places, the depredations of the Indians were dreadful. 
They every where committed the most savage barba ities, on 
persons of every age and sex, who unfortunately fell into their 
hands ; while the English government too much engaged in 
foreign conquests, had left the colony entirely o its own pro- 
tection. The frontiers of the New England colonies had", like- 
wise, been attacked and to add to this train of misfortunes, the 
Six Nations of Indians, who had long been in rhe English in- 
terest would not engage in war against the French or hos- 
tile Indians. 

in ( Ictober 1745, upwards of 500 of the s id Six Nations as- 
sembled in Albany to hold a conference, with the commis- 
sioners from the colonies of New- York, Massachusetts, Con- 
necticut and Pennsylvania. The main object of this confe- 
rence was to induce the Indians to take up the hatchet against 
the French ; but it by no means, ans" ered the end, for 
which it was designed. All that could be effected was a treaty, 
by which they stipulated, that, if they could not, within two 
months, procure satisfaction from the French Indians f r their 
hostilities upon the borders of New Eng and ; or that if any 
further hostilities should be commenced, they would then, 
upon receiving orders from the governor of New- ork, join 
in the war. The treaty had scarcely been concluded, when 
intelligence arrived, that another attack had been made on 
the New England frontiers The Massachusetts commis- 
sioners demanded of our governor, that he would order the 
Indians to commence immediate hostilities ; but with this de- 
mand he did not comply, as the two months allowed to the 
Indians had not expired. Much altercation ensued, and in 



58 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

the end, the commissioners separated with sentiments o( 
jealousy and disgust. 

On the 14th October '746, the assembly was again conven- 
ed, when the governor informed them that the Six Nations had 
pledged themselves in the most solemn manner to take a part 
in the war against the enemy; and as a fleet supposed to be 
French had been seen off Nova Scotia he exhorted them to 
make further supplies for the prosecution of the war. Six- 
teen thousand two hundred and fifty dollars were voted for vict- 
ualing the troops destined for the invasion of Canada. But it 
was at the same time resolved, that no further provision should 
be made for the deta- hments of militia sent to Albany in May 
and June. It was now evident, that the governor could not, at 
present, expect any further extraordinary supplies. Besides 
a controversy arose, during this session, which widened the 
breach still further between the governor an the assembly. 
It appeared, that, without any authority from that body, his 
Excellency had caused a large quantity of provisions to be 
taken from the public stores at Albany for the supply of four 
companies of fusiliers, an act, which they pronounced to be 
arbitrary and illegal. They also resolved, that it wtuld be in 
vain to furnish provisions for the subsistence of the forces rais- 
ed by this colony for the expedition against Canada, until 
proper assurances be given, that an effectual stop shall be put 
to such measures. 

To these and some other very harsh resolutions, a copy of 
which was delivered to the governor, he sent a moderate and 
respectful answer, which, however, was far from being satis- 
factory to the house. They concluded their reply to his Ex- 
cellency informing him, "that as soon as proper assurances 
shall be given, that the abuses committed in respect to the 
provisions already furnished for the subsistence of the forces 
on the Canadian expedition shall be effectually prevented, 
this house will cheerfully pass a bill for a further ample al- 
lowance for the subsistence of the said forces; but that until 
such assurances be given^ this house cannot, in justice to the 
people they represent, proceed upon any business whatsoever. 
Finding the assembly inflexible, the governor deemed it ex- 
pedient to make some farther concessions, with which tfiey ? 
at last,, appeared to be satisfied. 

The expedition against Canada, however, had not yet met 
Tvith that success, which had been anticipated. Much time 
had been spent in gaining over the Indians and in raising men 
and the necessary supplie . The colonies had not combined, 
their forces ; the British fleet had not arrived in season and 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 5^ 

great jealousy prevailed between th colonial governments, 
in egard In the manner of conducting the enterprise and of 
defraying the expense. The governor was so sensible of these 
difficulties, that in his address to the assembly, in March 1747, 
he complained of the loss of the campaign and ascribed it 
ehiefly to the afor said causes. He expressed his hopes, how- 
ever, that, from the arrangements which had been made, the 
ensuing campaign would be more successful 

The assembly and the governor again differed on some su- 
bordinate points concerning the new levies and the employ- 
ment of troops to scour the woods in the county of Albany. 
This produced a long and animated discussion and a minute 
detail of the operations of the government for the preceding 
year. Towards the close of this document, his Excellency 
was peculiarly unfortunate in his statement " that the assem- 
bly had shewn him personal disrespect, thereby contemning 
the power, from which his authority flowed," and still more 
in his assertion, that t e principal men in Albany did not wish 
well to the success of the expedition against Canada, on ac- 
count of the advantage, which they gained by trade with that 
country, particularly in time of war ; that the principal diffi- 
culty in gaining over the Indians arose from the great influence 
which those men possessed over that people, &c. H . ex- 
horted the house to make great preparations for opposing the 
enemy, and concluded with assurances of his being ready to 
co-operate with them in every measure which might be devis- 
ed for the defence of the colony. 

The assembly was thrown into a great ferment by his 
charge of disaffection against one of our principal cities and 
also by that of neglect on the part of themselves The mem- 
bers from Albany felt highly indignant, and denounced the 
governor as being under an influence unworthy of himself and 
of the colony. An answer was speedily voted, the style of 
which was apparently respectful ; but, in reality, scarcastic 
and reproachful. In the conclusion, it boldly insinuated, that 
he had, in different instances, been guilty of gross and palpa- 
b'e frauds and peculations, particularly in respect to Indian 
affairs and flatly denied his charge, that the assembly had not 
provided for the defence of the colony. It sneered at the ac- 
cusation which he had made against the inhabitants of Albany 
and roundly asserted, that he was under an influence, which 
had occasioned difficulties with the Indians and disturbed the 
harmony between the different branches of the government. 
The governor was so incensed, that he immediately adjourned 
the house and threatened, that he would lay their proceedings 



60 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

before his majesty. The state of raising supplies, however* 
did not admit of a long adjournment. 

The house was reassembled in a few d; ys, when the gover- 
nor informed them, that he had already expended $22,500 of 
his own private fortune in the payment of the new levies and 
insisted on an indemnification. The house resolved, that 
they had nothing to Ho with the pay of the forces raised for 
the invasion of Canada, that the supplv of their provisions 
was all that could be justly demanded of them, and determined 
without a dissenting voice, that if the lives and fortunes of the 
people of this colony should be endangered by the forces not be- 
ing paid, his Excellency would only be to blame, as it was easily 
in his power to provide against the impending evil, by simply 
discharging the duty, which he owed to his majesty. The 
governor now determined to fatigue the house into a compli- 
ance with his views by frequent adjournments, an expedient, 
which seldom failed of producing effects diametrically oppo- 
site to that, which was intended and so it turned out upon the 
present occasion. On the 4th day of August, being the fifth 
time of their adjournment, he informed the house, that he had 
received a letter froie governor Shirley of Massachusetts, in- 
forming him, that it was thought necessary to form a junction 
between the forces now in the province of New-York, with 
those of Massachusetts and Connecticut , and recommending 
in the most earnest manner, to provide for a portion of the ex- 
pense. 

The assembly in their answer, to the governor, expressed 
their desire of being informed what Massachusetts and Con- 
necticut intended to contribute towards the burden ; but they, 
in the mean time, resolved, that they would cheerfully con- 
cur with the neighbouring colonies in any well concerted 
scheme to annoy the common enemy and co tribute their just 
proportion of any exp uses, which might be necessary to car- 
ry it into execution ; although the colony of New-York had 
ah eady expended more money i >r securing the Six Nations 
in his Majesty's interest than those of Massachusetts and Con- 
necticut put together ; hence, that of whatever expense, the 
three provinces should find it necessary to assume for the an- 
noyance of the common enemy, it would be highly improper 
that New-York should pay more than one third part ; and fur- 
ther, that the provinces to the Westward ought to bear a share 
in all such expenses, so that the contribution of Massachusetts, 
Connecticut and New-York might thereby be proportionably 
diminished. 

The governor, a few days after, sent a message to the as- 



UNDER THE BRITISH. £l 

sembly, declaring that he could no longer continue the expense, 
at the charge of the crown, of supplying the four companies 
of fusileers at Albany and the levies made in the other colonies, 
for the invasion of Canada, nor that of preserving the friend- 
ship of the Indians and sending out parties of that peo- 
ple to annoy the enemy and to gain intelligence of their move- 
ments. He urged them to make provision for those expenses 
and for relieving the garrisons at Oswego and Saratoga. The 
assembly refused to furnish provisions for the four companies 
at Albany, alledging that their pay was sufficient for the pur- 
pose and that they had always subsisted thereon, unless when 
stationed in remote garrisons. They, likewise, stated, that it 
was highly unreasonable to expect, that they should supply 
the troops of the other colonies with provisions and that the 
Crown ought to be at the expense of securing the friendship of 
the Indians, especially, at this juncture, when the burdens im- 
posed on the colony, by reason of the war, were almost intole- 
rable. They, in fine, gave his Excellency to understand, that, 
in the present emergency, they had already contributed much 
more than could have been expected from them, and that all 
that they could or would do was to provHe for the pay and 
subsistence of one hundred and fifty effective men, to range 
and scour the woods, in the county of Albany, for the space 
of fifty days, for the protection of the inhabitants of the said 
county, against the skulking parties of the enemy. 

At this time the resources of the French were very conside- 
rable. They were in possession of Canada and had fortified 
Quebec. Their towns were numerous and their stations well 
chosen. They had occupied the country of upper Louisiana, 
a fertile region, capable of supporting an immense population 
and meditated the union of Louisiana with Canada, by which 
they could more readily act in concert and annoy the English. 
The white population of the French colonies amounted to 52- 
000 men. Their whole po-.ver was marshalled under one ru«- 
ler, and the temper of the people as well as the genius of the 
government was military. With the exception of the Six Na- 
tions, all the Indians were attached to France. They were 
trained to war after the European manner, and their aid was 
the more valuable, as they were acquainted with the recesses 
of the country, which was the theatre of war. Jn opposing 
the force and defeating the plans of the French, the English 
colonies laboured under many disadvantages. They were 
separated into distinct governments and excepting those of 
New England were altogether unaccustomed to union. They 
were jealous of the power of the crown and involved in fre* 



02 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

quent disputes with their immediate rulers. They were spread 
over a large territory, and in the central provinces, the peo- 
ple had so long lived in sach tranquillity, that they were wholly 
unacquainted with military operations. Their population, 
indeed, exceeded that of the French by one half, and was 
equal to a million of souls* ; although from the causes above 
mentioned it was impossible to get them to act in concert. 
But as it was obvious, that a great struggle would speedily 
ensue, it was necessary, if possible, to devise some plan of 
union. 

The Lords Commissioners for trade and plantations had re- 
commended to the several colonies to appoint commissioners 
to meet each other for the purpose of agreeing upon a general 
league of friendship between all the colonies and Indians in 
•his majesty's American dominions. The general court of 
Massachusetts not only acceded to the proposal ; but desired 
his Excellency Governor Shirley to pray his majesty, that af- 
fairs, which relate to the Six Nations and their allies should be 
put under such general regulations as his majesty shall think 
proper and that the several governments be obliged to bear 
their proportion of defending his majesty's territories against 
the encroachments of the French and the ravages and incur- 
sions of the hostile Indians. 

A general meeting of the governors and chief men from se- 
veral of the colonies was held accordingly, at Albany in June, 
1754, who were unanimously of opinion, that an union of the 
colonies was essentially necessary in order to secure the ready 
co-operation of all the English in America. The plan pro- 
posed was, that a grand council should be formed of mem- 
bers to be chosen from each colony by the respective assem- 
blies, which council, when organized, should together with a 
governor general to be appointed by the crown, be authorized 
to make general laws to raise money in all the colonies, for 
defence of the whole. But notwithstanding the magnitude 
and immediate pressure of the danger, the proposal, though 
acceptable here, was objected to in England, the ministry be- 
ing afraid, that a union upon such principles might give such 
power to the colonists, as would enable them, when they 
thought proper, to resist the authority of the parent state. 

* This was the supposed number of inhabitants in the British terri- 
tories (now the United States of America) in the year 1752. According 
to the last census taken in 1820, they amounted to 9,543,82G and there 
is reason to believe, that at the commencement of the year 1826, they 
amounted to between 11 and 12 millions. So rapid an increase in the 
population of any country is perhaps unexampled in the annals of his* 
tory. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 63 

Another plan, was, therefore, proposed as a substitute viz. 
that the governors of all the colonies attended by one or two 
members of their respective councils should assemble, concert 
measures for the defence of the whole, erect forts where they 
thought necessary, with power to draw upon the British trea- 
sury, for which the treasury was afterwards to be reimbursed 
by a tax to be laid on the colonies by act of parliament. 

If the plan proposed for a confederated government of the 
colonies, which had b. en agreed on at Albany, was not rel- 
ished by the British ministry, the one, which they recommend- 
ed in its stead, was fully as obnoxious on this side of the At- 
lantic. The governors were chiefly of the King's appoint- 
ment. They were, with scarcely any exceptions, in embar- 
rassed circumstances and contrived to be sent here, that the} 7 
might have an opportunity of repairing their shattered for- 
tunes, by their impositions on those, whom it was their duty to 
protect. To replenish their empty pockets and to return to 
their native country in affluence, after an absence of a few 
years, was their sole object, and in this they too often succeed- 
ed by the most iniquitous means. Nor could the people place 
more confidence in the integrity of the eouncil, as their very 
existence solely depended upon the will of the governor, under 
whom they respectively served. The ministerial scheme was, 
therefore, received with indignation, not only in this city ; but, 
likewise, in every part of the British colonies. It was uni- 
versally reprobated as a subtle and dangerous contrivance to 
provide for favourites, to undermine the liberties of the Amer- 
icans and eventually subject them to the most abject slavery. 
That part of the scheme, which authorized the British treasu- 
ry to be reimbursed for the monies, which might be paid by 
them for colonial purposes, by a tax to be laid on the provinces 
by act of parliament was peculiarly offensive. 

It was, at that time, fully as well understood as at the com- 
mencement of the revolutionary war, that every man has a 
natural right to be governed by laws of his own making, either 
in person or by his representative and that no authority can 
be justly exercised over him, which is not derived from the 
people of whom he is one ; hence that no part of his property 
can be taken from him except by his own consent expressed 
in one or other of these ways. But in the British parlianunt, 
the Americans had no vote and considering the great distance 
between the two countries, it was scarcely possible, that they 
could be represented in that body ; and they strenuously con- 
tended, that taxation without representation was repugnant 
to their privileges as Englishmen, On the other hand, the 



64 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

ministry firmly maintained, that the mother country had a 
right to tax her colonies in all cases whatever. On this doc- 
trine, though with them deemed highly important, it was, at 
that time, thought the wisest policy not to insist. They per- 
ceived, that it was a measure, w ich was viewed with univer- 
sal abhorrence, and that any attempt to enforce it might raise 
a ferment, which could not be easily allayed. 

It is much to be regretted, that the history of the state of 
New- York has not been brought down to a later period than 
the year 1747. Indeed Smith's history, from which a great 
part of the preceding is compiled extends no farther than 1732. 
In regard to what follows, it has been found impossible to go 
on with a regular narrative. Every article, however, has been 
selected from what appeared to me to be authentic documents 
and as much care as possible has been taken to state with ac- 
curacy at what particular time, each transaction took place. 

On the 1 Oth October 1753, George Clinton ceased to be 
governor of this province, when he was superseded by James 
Delancey the lieutenant governor. During the administra- 
tion of this gentleman, the war against the French and Cana- 
dians raged with great fury and various success ; but there 
"was nothing decisive achieved on either side. On the 3 1st 
October 1754, he granted a charter for an act of incorporation 
to the first and still the most celebrated literary institution in 
the state, under the name of "The Governors of the college 
of the province of New-York, in the city of New- York in 
America." It was called " King's College :'" and soon after 
the close of the revolutionary war, viz. in April 17S7> the said 
charter was confirmed by the legislature of the State, the 
name being changed to that of "Columbia College." 
Some few alterations, likewise, took place, in consequence of 
the change in our political situation. Of this institution, how- 
ever, it will be unnecessary to say any thing farther, at pre- 
sent, as it will be particularly noticed under the head of Lite- 
rary Establishments. 



UNDER THE BRITISH 65 



CHAPTER VIII. 

From the arrival of Sir Charles Hardy as Governor, 20tli 
September 1755, to the declaration of Independence , 4tli 
.hdy 1776. 

Sir Charles arrived at a time, when the colony was in- 
volved in war and greatly dissatisfied with the prospect that 
their liberties were in danger. Although the ministry 
had desisted from their intended oppressive measures, for 
a time, they still seemed determined to raise a revenue upon 
the colonies, in one shape or other. Of their determination 
on this point, the provincial legislatures had been fully ap- 
prised, as they had received authentic information in May 
1755, that the ministry depended upon a common fund being 
raised in all the American colonies, in proportion to their re- 
spective abilities for defraying the expenses entered into for 
their common defence. Massachusetts bay was the first, 
which directed their agent in Britain to oppose everything, 
which might have the most remote tendency to raise a reve- 
nue in the colonies for any public uses or serricos of govern- 
ment. 

In the midst of this state of alarm, which extended through- 
out the British provinces, the melancholy news of the defeat 
of General Braddock (July nth 1755) with his whole army 
consisting of upwards of two thousand men, besides militia, 
greatly added to the general gloom. That general had resolv- 
ed to attack Fort Du Quesne ; but was surprised on his 
march by a party of Indians, with whose mode of fighting he 
was entirely unacquainted. The van was thrown into con- 
fusion and the main body advancing, the enemy consisting of 
about 400, who had lain in ambush, in an instant, sallied out, 
fired upon the English and effectually completed their disor- 
der. The defeat was total Braddock himself was mortally 
wounded and nearly half of the privates was either killed or 
wounded. Colonel Washington, who then commanded the 
militia, a body of men, whom the unfortunate Braddock had 
despised, by his bravery and prudence, covered the retreat 
and saved the wreck of the vanquished army. Well did the 
Rev. Mr. Davis, then president of Princeton college, predict in 
a sermon, which he preached soon after this disaster, that this 
gallant younc officer (then in the 24th year of his age) was 
destined by Divine Providence for soT.e great purpose. Yes: 
He became the deliverer op his country, 

F 2 . 



6(3 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

The winters of 1755 and 1756 were uncommonly mild, 
the river being open between this city and Albany on Janua- 
ry 14th and February 14th and in the year 1762, the severest 
drought ever known in this country was experienced, no rain 
having fallen from the month of May to that of November. 

But to return to the progress of the war. In 17 o7, the 
British army had to encounter another defeat. The marquis 
de Montcalm governor of Canada a very able general advanc- 
ed against Fort William Henry and compelled the garrison to 
capitulate, on condition, that they should not serve against the 
king of France or his allies for the space of eighteen months. 
But the Indians unacquainted with the maxims of honour, 
which regulated the conduct of Europeans and disregarding 
the articles of capitulation, fell upon the troops, after they had 
evacuated the place, and notwithstanding the exertions of 
Montcalm to prevent the outrage, massacred the greatest part 
of them. 

Instead of producing fear, however, and notwithstanding 
the dread of the colonists in respect to the threatened taxation, 
the ill success of the British arms excited the indignation of the 
people on both sides of the atlantic and urged them to more 
vigorous preparations. Happily for the British nation, about 
this time Mr. Pitt afterwards Lord Chatham was placed at the 
head of the ministry, when the face of affairs was in a short 
time entirely changed, the war prosecuted with unexampled 
success and the enemy, at length driven out of America. In 
no part of the empire was the character of this great states- 
man, more popular than in this country, particularly, in this 
city, where a statue was erected to his memory which was 
afterwards thrown down, when it was found, that he was 
opposed to their independence, a measure, which was then 
little, if at all thought of.* Mr. Pitt assured the gover- 
nors of the colonies, in a circular letter, that an effectual 
force should be sent to act against the French, both by sea and 
land; and he called upon them to raise as large bodies of men 
as the population of their respective provinces Would allow. 

* Dr. Gordon in his " History of the American War'' Vol. I page 
109, informs us, that Mr. Pratt, afterwards Lord Camden said to Dr. 
Franklin in a course of free conversation. " For all what you Amer- 
icans say of your loyalty, I know you will one day throw offyour de- 
pendence upon this country and notwithstanding 1 your boasted affection 
to it will set up for independence." The other answered, "No such 
idea is entertained in the mind of the Americans; and no such idea will 
ever enter their heads, unless you greatly abuse them." " Very true," 
replied Mr. Pratt," that is one of the very causes, which I see will hap- 
pen and produce the event/' 



UNDER TPfE BRITISH. Q7 

These were to be supplied with arms and amunition by tho. 
crown. The colonies, with the greatest alacrity, seconded 
the views of the minister, and rejoiced, at the opportunity, 
which then appeared to be offered of reducing the power "of 
the French, whom they had long considered as their natural 
enemies. 

Though, during the campaign of 1758, the British notwith- 
standing the mighty force, which they brought into action con- 
sisting of fifty thousand men, experienced some very conside- 
rable defeats, yet upon the whole their advances towards their 
main object, the reduction of Canada, were important and de- 
cisive. In 1759, the battle of the heights of Abraham, under 
the walls of Quebec was fought by the British commanded by 
General Wolf and the French by the Marquis de Montcalm. 
Victory having decided, in favour of the British, the reduction 
of the city of Quebec was the immediate consequence, and this 
was ultimately followed by the subjugation of the French, in 
every part of Canada. In this battle, however, the two gene- 
rals Wolf and Montcalm fell in the service of their respective 
countries. The news of the victory was highly gratifying to 
the British colonists, whose safety was thereby secured against 
the attacks of a rival, who had possessed the inclination as 
well as the means to annoy them. But the death of the young, 
the humane and the enterprising General Wolf was universal- 
ly lamented in every part of the British dominions and no 
where more sincerely than in this city. The fate of his wor- 
thy antagonist, Montcalm, who was an able general and high- 
ly distinguished for his many virtues was, likewise, a cause of 
sympathy towards those who had lost so good a commander. 
On thr lOth'February 1763j a definitive treaty of peace was 
concluded at Paris, between Great Britain on the one side, and 
France, Spain and Portugal on the other, which confirmed to 
Great Britain the extensive provinces of Canada, East and 
West Florida, and part of Louisiana, also the islands of Gran- 
ada, St. Vincent, Dominica and Tobago in the West Indies. 

It might have been expected, that peace having been thus 
happily restored to Great Britain with all the nations of Eu- 
rope, her ministers would have been desirous of giving her a 
respite for a few years, so that she might have an opportunity 
of regaining her former strength; but now it appeared to 
them to be a suitable time to endeavour to enforce their fa- 
vourite measure, the taxation of the colonies. A bill was ac- 
cordingly introduced into the house of Commons 29th Sept. 
1764, for the avowed purpose of raising a revenue in Ameri- 
ca, by which bill the colonists were to pay certain duties 



&8 THE CITY OP KfiW-YOftK 

upon clayed sugar, indigo and coffee of foreign produce, 
wrought silks, and several other kinds of goods therein speci- 
fied, as also upon molasses and syrup, being the produce of a 
colony, not belonging to the crown of Great Britain, and 
these duties were to be paid into the exchequer in specie. 

This act was the more obnoxious to the colonists on account 
of its being so unseasonable The duties were to be paid in 
specie, while the profitable commerce, which they had long 
carried on with the French and Spaniards, in different parts 
of the new world, was to be instantly and rigorously suppres- 
sed by taxes, which wev^ equal, in their judgment, to a prohi- 
bition of the trade, and in order to prevent smuggling, all the na- 
val officers on the American station were obliged to act as pet- 
ty collectors of the revenue. Gentlemen of the navy were un- 
acquainted with custom house laws, and of course liable to com- 
mit mistakes, in the execution of their new office, in conse- 
quence of which, the law, which was sufficiently odious in it- 
self, was rendered still more unpopular. The whole continent 
was thrown into a ferment. Remonstrances and petitions, 
to the king and both houses of parliament were prepared in the 
different colonies ; but that from New-York was couched in 
such indignant language, that their agent could not prevail 
upon any member of the house to present it. In these memo- 
rials, every argument, which ingenuity could suggest, was ur- 
ged in order to procure the repeal of the obnoxious statute ; 
but without eHect. But besides the- remonstrances, &c. 
which have been already mentioned, associations were formed 
in all the provinces in order to diminish the use of British man- 
ufactures ; a step, which besides its immediate effects, set the 
merchants of England against the ministry and encreased the 
opposition, with which those in power were obliged to con- 
tend. 

But the ministers were determined not to stop at what they 
had already done To complete the climax of their folly, un- 
der pretence of enabling the Americans to defend themselves 
against any foreign enemy, the bill for imposing stamp duties 
was brought into parliament ?d February 1765. On the in- 
troduction of this bill. Mr Charles Townsend was one of its 
most strenuous advocates and in a speech, which he had de- 
livered in its favour, he concluded in the following manner, 
"And now will these Americans, children planted by our 
care ; nourished up by our indulgence, until they are grown 
to a degree of strength and opulence ; and protected by our 
arms ; will they grudge to contribute their mite, to relieve us 
from the heavy weight of that burden, which we lie under ?" 



UNDER THE BRITISH. C*9 

To this query of Mr. Townsend, Colonel Barre, who having 
resided in America, for several years, wa- well acquainted 
with the character of the people, replied in the following spiri- 
ted and very pertinent manner. " They planted by Your 
care? No. Your oppression planted them in America. 
They fled from your tyranny to a then uncultivated and unhos- 
pitable country, where they exposed themselves to almost all 
the hardships, to which human nature is liable ; and amongst 
others to the cruelties of a savage foe" &c. " They nourished 
up by Your indulgence? They grew up by your neglect of 
them. As soon as you began to take care about them, that 
care was exercised in sending persons to rule them in one de- 
partment and another, who were, perhaps, the deputies of 
deputies to some members of this house, sent to spy out their 
liberties, to misrepresent their actions and to pry upon them," 
&c. " persons, some of whom, to my knowledge were glad by 
going to a foreign country to escape from being brought to the 
bar of a court of justice in their own." " They protected by 
Your arms? They have nobly taken up arms in your de- 
fence 5 have exerted a valour amidst tijeir serious and constant 
industry for the defence of a country, whose frontier was 
drenched in blood, while its interior parts yielded all its little 
savings to your emolument. And believe me, — remember I, 
this day, tell you so, that the same snirit of freedom which 
actuated that people at first, will accompany them stiU," &c. 
He concludes thus " The people, J believe are as truly loyal 
as any subjects the king has ; but a people jealous of their lib- 
erties and who will vindicate them, if ever they should be vio- 
lated. But the subject is too delicate — I will say no more." 
These sentiments thrown out so forcibly, without premedita- 
tion, for sometime, struck the members with amazement, who 
sat intensely looking at each other without making the least 
reply. But the dye was cast. No arguments against the bill 
were of any avail ; it passed by a majority of about 150 to 50 
and became a law 22d March 1 765. 

The reception of the stamp act among the colonies was such 
as might have been expected. Combinations were every 
where formed to prevent its execution. Riots took place in 
most of the sea ports, where not only the furniture ; but, in 
many instances, the houses of those, who adhered to the go- 
vernment were demolished and the stamps destroyed by the 
.enraged populace wherever they could be found. The disaf- 
fection appeared to spread. A meeting of deputies from all 
the colonies was advised by the House of Representatives in 
Massachusetts, to meet at New- York on the first Tuesday in 



fO THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

October 1765, for the purpose of devising such measures as 
might be most conducive to the repeal of the stamp act, and, at 
the time appointed commissioners from 9 of the 13 colonies as- 
sembled in this city accordingly. The assemblies from the 
other provinces were prevented by their governors from sending 
their committees to Congress. Timothy Ruggles of Massa- 
chusetts being elected president, 14 resolut oris were passed, 
in which the said Congress express, in firm but respectful 
language the extent of the grievances, of which they complain 
and conclude by declaring it to be an indispensable duty which 
they owe to the king, the mother country and to themselves 
to endeavour by a loyal and dutiful address to his majesty and 
humble applications to both houses of parliament to procure 
the repeal of " The act for granting and applying certain 
stamp duties" and of all clauses of any other acts, intended for 
the restriction of American commerce. Congress broke up 
on the 25th of October, after having finished the business, to 
which they had been appointed The colonies, which could 
not send committees, shewed, as opportunities offered, their 
approbation, of what had been done, by forwarding to their 
agents petitions to the like purpose of that of Congress. 

In the mean time, those, who dared to nssist in the exe- 
cution of those odious statutes were deemed enemies to their 
country. Such, therefore, as had been appointed to dis- 
tribute stamps, being apprehensive of danger, in general, 
resigned the office, or retreated to some place of securi- 
ty, where they vainly hoped, that they might be able to con- 
ceal themselves till the storm should blow over.* To the few, 
who dared to act in opposition to the popular opinion, little 
hope could be entertained for the safety of either their proper- 
ty or persons. «n most places of any consequence, there 
were considerable commotions a id this city was not without 
its share. The stamp act was treated with the utmost con- 
tempt, as it was cried about the streets under the title of 
i( The folly of England and ruin of America " 

Towards the end of October, the stamp-papers arrived, and 
Mr. M'Evers, to whom they had been consigned for distribu- 

* Mr. Hood, stamp distributor for Maryland, that he might avoid re- 
signing, fled to New-York, where, he at first, took refuge in the fort and 
afterwards went to Long Island. A number of the Sons of Freedom, ha- 
ving crossed over unexpectedly, obliged him to sign a paper, declaring 
his absolute and final resignation, and then took him before a magis- 
trate, to whom he read the said paper and afterwards made oath to the 
matter therein contained. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. Jl 

tion, having resigned his office, they were sent to Dr. Golden 
then lieutenant governor, who caused them to be deposited in 
Port George. Several extraordinary preparations for securing 
them having excited the suspicion of the inhabitants, audits 
being 1st November, the day on which the noxious act was to 
go into operation, a great concourse of people assembled in 
the evening, proceeded to the fort, took out the governor's 
carriage, and after drawing it through the principal streets, 
marched to the common, where a gallows had been previously 
erected, on which they suspended his effigy, having in his right 
hand a stamped bill of lading, and in his left a figure intended 
for the devil. After it had hung for a considerable time, they 
carried it together with the appendages and the gallows, in 
procession, the carriage preceding, to the gate of the fort and 
from thence to the Bowling green, where under the very muz- 
zles of the guns of the fort, they burnt the whole, amidst the 
acclamations of some thousands of spectators. They then 
proceeded to the house of a major James, against whom the 
populace were highly incensed on account of his having avow- 
ed himself to be in favour of the stamp-act, and there they de- 
stroyed his valuable library, and made a bonfire of his furni- 
ture, in front of his house, which they completely gutted and 
reduced to a shell. 

Although, on the ensuing morning, the inhabitants had been 
earnestly advised to be ready on any alarm to turn out under 
arms, for the purpose of quelling riotous proceedings, it answer- 
ed no good purpose ; as a vast mob headed by captain Isaac 
Sears, who had formerly commanded a privateer and was ex- 
tremely opposed to the stamp-act having assembled in the 
evening, waited upon the lieutenant governor and insisted up- 
on his delivering the stamps into their hands. He endeav- 
oured to appease them, by informing them, that he could do 
nothing in the business and that it would be best to leave it till 
the arrival of the governor Sir Thomas Moore, which was daily 
expected. This answer was, by no means, agreeable to the 
people, wh.o threatened, that if they did not get them peacea- 
bly, they would endeavour to take them by force. Dr. Col- 
den apprehensive, that much blood might be spilt, if they 
should resort to that measure, was at last prevailed on to deliv- 
er them to the corporation, by whom they were deposited in 
the City Hall. Ten boxes of stamps having arrived after- 
wards were committed to the flames. 

It was now perceived by the ministry, that they must either 
repeal the obnoxious statutes or compel the Americans to sub- 
mit to them by force. The confederacy against them was 



73 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

general, systematic and alarming. It was universally agreed, 
that no articles of British manufacture should be imported and. 
that those, which were made in the colonies should be prefer- 
red. The New-York merchants were the first, who passed 
this non importation agret men!, October 2d 1765, when they 
resolved that they would not import or receive any goods from 
Great Britain, until such acts of parliament as the general as- 
sembly had declared unconstitutional and subversive of the 
rights and liberties of the people of this colony should be re- 
pealed ; and the merchants in every part of the country soon 
after entered into similar agreements. In addition to this, 
many of the inhabitants of Great Britain openly espoused the 
American cause. The merchants and manufacturers were 
likewise strongly opposed to the noxious statutes. On the 
22nd February 1766, a motion was made in the House of 
Commons for the repeal of the stamp act, which after a long 
and interesting debate was carried by a majority of 275 to 
167. In the House of Lords it likewise passed by a great ma- 
jority and finally received the royal sanction 19th March fol- 
lowing. 

But though the stamp act was repealed, the ministry had 
not relinquished their intention of raising a revenue in America. 
In order to support as it was called the dignity of the crown, a bill 
was passed, in which the superiority of Great Britain over 
her colonies was declared to extend to all cases whatever. 
This assertion greatly diminished the joy, which the repeal of 
the stamp act had occasioned ; as the Americans considered 
it as a foundation, on which any future ministry might oppress 
them under the sanction of parliamentary authority. It was 
not long before they had an opportunity of seeing that their 
fears were too well founded. An act had been passed by the 
British parliament providing for the soldiers in the colonies with 
the necessaries and accommodations, which their circum- 
stances might require. But when the assembly of New- York 
was applied to, December 2d 1766, by Governor Moore, to 
quarter some of the King's troops, in conformity to this act, 
they justified their declining to provide for them, by asserting 
that the act was only meant to apply to such troops as were 
marching from place to place, and not to those who were sta- 
tioned in any particular place perhaps for a whole year ; that 
by marching several regiments into the colony, the expense 
would be ruinous and insupportable, and they concluded thus. 
" We cannot consistent with our duty to our constituents put 
it in the power of any person (^whatsoever confidence we have 
in his prudence and integrity) to lay such a burden on them." 






UNDER THE BRITISH". '3 

The assembly at Boston as well as that of Virginia and other 
colonies highly approved of their conduct. 

The British parliament, in order to punish the refractorv 
spirit of the assemblies enacted 2d July 1767, that the legisla- 
tive power was taken from that of New- York, till they 
should comply with the act of parliament for furnishing his 
majesty's troops with the necessaries required by that act. 
The taking away, in this manner, from one province, all the 
powers of legislation, occasioned a general ferment thoughour 
die whole. They now saw that their own legislative bodies 
might be bound to what the ministry might deem their good 
behaviour, by acts of parliament. About the same time, acts 
were, likewise passed, for imposing a duty upon paper, glass 
painters' colours and tea imported into the colonies for the 
purpose of settling salaries on the governors, judges, &c. 

Those acts were received with greater aversion than the 
stamp act itself. Letters were sent from .Massachusetts to 
all the other colonies inveighing against the injustice and ty- 
ranny of the British legislature ; and affirming, that their pro- 
ceedings were subversive of liberty and hostile to the rights of 
British subjects. The legislature of Virginia forthwith applaud- 
ed them for their attention to American liberty and the othc; 
assemblies, as they had an opportunity harmonized with them 
in resolves and petitions. The New- York assembly which 
had felt the weight of parliamentary indignation by being be- 
reaved of the power of legislation, in the beginning of the year 
1?'(5S, voted the sum wanted to the general, for the purchase o* 
pepper, salt and vinegar, instead of passing an act conforma- 
ble to the act of parliament. This vote, however, was deem- 
ed satisfactory. But when they met towards the close of the 
year, after having completed a petition to the king, another 
to the lords and a remonstrance to the house of commons, they 
proceeded to consider the circular letters from the assemblies 
of Massachusetts, and Virginia, and unanimously agreed to an- 
swer them in the most respectful manner. They then entered 
into some very spirited resolutions in favour of the rights a 
their constituents, and appointed a committee to correspond 
V.ith any others of his majesty's subjects out of the colony 
either individually or collectively on any subject, whereby 
the rights or privileges of the house or its constituents rmgrii 
he affected. In consequence of these proceedings, the housi* 
was dissolve** 

On the 1st August 170[), the Boston merchants entered into 
a fresh non importation agreement, by which they engaged^ 
that they would not send for or import from Great Britain, dit~ 

G 



74 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

ring the fall any other goods than what they had already or- 
dered for the fall supply and that they woujid not send for, im- 
port or purchase from any factor any goods, wares or mer- 
chandise (articles necessary for the fisheries excepted) from 
Great Britain from 1st January 1769 to 1st January 1770; 
nor any tea, paper, glass or painters' colours, until the act im- 
posing duties on these articles should be repealed. The mer- 
chants of this city forthwith agreed to similar resolutions and. 
in a very short time, there were few, if any places in the pro- 
vinces where they were not adopted. The colonists could not 
overlook the good effects produced by the former non-impor- 
tation agreement, and were earnest in playing of the same en- 
gine against the new attempts of the ministry to saddle them 
with the payment of taxes. 

In the mean time, the parliament shewed, that it had 
neither sufficient vigour to compel the Americans to submit ; 
nor sufficient liberality to yield to their remonstrances. Ac- 
cordingly on the 12th April 1770, the act for repealing the 
duties on paper, glass and painters' colours was passed. The 
duty on tea was professedly continued as a mere badge of 
sovereignty over the colonies. It had been predicted, how- 
ever, by those in the opposition that this apparent concession 
on the part of the ministers would have no good effect, as the 
Americans would never be satisfied, if any duty whatever 
were imposed upon them without their consent and the event 
fully shewed, that their prediction was well founded. It was 
determined by the Bostonians, that the tea should not be land- 
ed, as it was obvious, that it would be extremely difficult to 
prevent the sale, if the commodity should once be received on 
shore. This disposition was not confined to Massachusetts. 
In New-York, the people manifested a similar disposition and 
a spirit of resistance to the introduction of arbitrary power 
was manifested in almost every part of British America. 

But previous to the disturbances occasioned by the attempt 
to land the tea in Boston, New-York, Philadelphia and other 
places, a considerable ferment arose in this city from a diffe- 
rent cause. About the middle of January 1770, the Liberty 
Pole was cut down at night by the soldiers. At that time, they 
could have scarcely committed an act more offensive to the in- 
habitants, who could not endure the idea of being subject to 
military despotism. In order, therefore, to evince their adhe- 
rence to the sacred cause, which they had espoused, they soou 
after erected a new liberty pole strongly secured with iron. 
The animosity between the inhabitants and the soldiers had 
arisen from the improper conduct of the assembly, who, at 



UNDER THE BRITISH. ( ^ 

their last session, had granted a supply to the king's troops 
quartered in the colony. This had given great umbrage and 
to quiet the minds of the populace, they had declared that it 
was the last supply they would ever grant till their grievances 
should be redressed ; but notwithstanding this resolution, 
they, in the present session, voted the farther sum of $5000. 
This greatly added to the irritation, which already existed, 
and the soldiers were led to consider the people as their ene- 
mies. A paper appeared, 'upon the occasion, addressed. 
a To the betrayed inhabitants of the City and Colony of" 
New-York" under the signature of a Son of Liberty, and 
this was pronounced by the assembly to be a false, seditious, 
and infamous libel. Captain Alexander, afterwards General 
M'Dougal, being brought before the chief justice as the pub- 
lisher was on the 8th February, upon refusing to give bail, 
committed to prison. \t the April term, a bill was found 
against him ; but the trial was put off and he admitted to bail. 
When the assembly met towards the end of the year, he was 
ordered before their bar and as he- would not ask pardon, was 
committed to jail for a high contempt, and there he remained 
till the assembly was prorogued 25th February 1771. He 
was discharged from his recognizance, without trial, 27th 
March following, after being under bonds nearly 12 months 
and suffering 23 weeks actual imprisonment. This gentle- 
man, who was a native of Scotland,- had the honour of being 
the first sufferer for the cause of liberty after the commencement 
of the united efforts of the sons of America to frustrate the 
plans of the ministry. Instead, however of being disgraced 
by his confinement, it answered a very different purpose, as 
during its continuance, he was daily visited by crowds of the 
most respectable ladies and gentlemen in the city. 

But to return to the subject of the Tea. In the month of 
November 1773, three vessels had arrived at Boston laden 
with that article. It had been determined, that it should be 
sent back in the same vessels, which brought it, and the cap- 
tains alarmed at the menaces of the people were willing to com- 
ply ; but the governor having thrown difficulties in the way, 
the ships were obliged to remain in the harbour. The people, 
however, apprehensive, that the obnoxious commodity would 
be landed in small quantities, if the vessels should not be sent 
back to England, resolved to destroy it at once. For this 
purpose on the 16th December, a number of persons chiefly 
masters of vessels and ship builders disguised as Indi;ms, re- 
paired to the vessels and discharged the contents of 320 chests 
of tea into the water, the numerous spectators instead of mo- 
leslingthem serving as a covering party. 



?0" THE CITY OF NEW-YOEK 

In this city, the people being fully determined against permit- 
ting tea to be landed shewed themselves to be equally resolute 
as those in Boston. About the middle of December 1773, two 
ships the London captain Chalmers and the tea ship arrived 
at this port on the same day. The former came up directly 
fo the wharf, and the other remained at the hook till her de- 
parture for England. The consignees came under a solemn 
promise, that they would neither receive nor sell the tea, as it 
came liable to an American duty"; but captain Chalmers ha- 
ving ventured to bring up 17 chests on his own account, they 
were instantly seized and thrown into the stream. Had the 
lea ship been brought up to the wharf, she would most prob- 
ably have been burnt, as combustibles had been provided foi 
that purpose, by captain Sears and others. Inmost places, 
the consignees were obliged to relinquish their appointments, 
and to enter into engagements not to act in that capacity, in 
consequence of which and the vigilance of the committees, it. 
was scarcely possible to land any tea in America. 

These troubles were introductory to a general rupture be- 
tween the mother country and the colonies. Parliament re- 
solved to punish the Bostonians in an exemplary manner by 
compelling them to pay for the value of the tea, which had 
been destroyed and to shut up their port by an armed force, 
till their refractory spirit should be subdued. The ministers 
believed, that this high handed measure would intimidate not 
only the inhabitants of Massachusetts; but those of the other 
provinces. A general infatuation seems, at that time, to have 
pervaded not only the parliament ; but the people of Great 
Britain at large. It was the general idea, that the Americans 
would not persevere in resisting the authority of the mother 
country, and that if they did, their resistance would be of no 
avail. Other laws were passed in rapid succession, which 
were so offensive to the colonists, as to exasperate them be- 
yond the possibility of reconciliation. 

The legislature of Massachusetts, so far from submitting to 
the arbitrary impositions of the ministry, declared it necessary, 
that a congress of delegates from all the provinces should as- 
semble to take the general state of affairs into consideration, 
and nominated five gentlemen as representatives on their part. 
Ijhe cause of Boston was espoused by the rest of the colonies 
and on the 4th of : September, 1774, the first general congress 
of the American colonies assembled at Philadelphia, when 
Peyton Randolph, Esq. of Virginia was unanimously elected 
President and Charles Thompson, Esq. Secretary, an office 
which he held with the greatest honour. till some time after the 
close of the revohitionsry war. 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 77 

The whole namber of members in this august body was 55, 
of whom George Washington the father of his country was 
one. The following are the names of the gentlemen, who 
represented this province James Duane, Henry Wisner, 
John Jay, Philip Livingston, Isaac Low, John Alsop and 
William Floyd, Esq. all of whom, except the venerable 
John Jay have for several years been consigned to the silent 
tomb. 

As soon as this congress had been organized, they resolved, 
that each colony should have one vote and that their delibera- 
tions should be with closed doors. On the 17th September, 
they expressed their approbation of what had been done by 
the inhabitants of Massachusetts, exhorted them to perseve- 
rance and resolved unanimously, that contributions should be 
made for them in all the colonies, and continued so long as 
circumstances should require. On the 8th of October follow- 
ing, they declared, that if the late acts of parliament should be 
attempted to be carried into execution by force, all America 
ought to support the inhabitants of Massachusetts in their op- 
position ; that if it be found absolutely necessary to remove 
the people of Boston into the country, all America ought to 
contribute towards recompensing them for the injury, which 
they may thereby sustain ; and that every person, who should 
act under any commission derived from the act of parliament, 
changing the form of government and violating the charter, 
ought to be held in detestation. After having prepared a re- 
spectful petition to the king and both houses of parliament, a 
letter to General Gage, a declaration of their rights and ad- 
dresses to their constituents, their fellow citizens in Great 
Britain, &c. they broke up on the 26th October 1774, and 
recommended that a new congress be held in May next. 

The inclinations of the people were in unison with the re- 
commendations of congress, and the people of Boston were 
supplied by contributions from all quarters. When winter 
approached, the select men of that town obliged the workmen 
employed in erecting the barracks to desist and the merchants 
of this city declared, that they would never supply any article 
for the benefit of men, who were sent as the enemies of their 
country. All hopes of a reconciliation with Great Britain 
seemed now at an end. The assemblies in all the colonies 
voted, that amunition should be procured at the general ex- 
pense and it was obvious, that a civil war was about to ensue. 

The assembly of New-York, which had convened in the 
early part of the year 1775 were backward in the general 
cause. They renounced all concern with the late continental 

G2 



7S THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

congress, declined choosing deputies for the proposed new 
one and in their individual capacity sent a petition to the 
king, a memorial to the lords and a remonstrance to the house 
of commons. In this last they represented the grievances ? 
onder which they laboured, renounced the most distant desire 
of independence, remonstrated in behalf of their brethren in 
Massachusetts, for whose distresses they could not help feel- 
ing ; but at the same time expressed their disapprobation of 
the violent measures, which had been pursued in some of the 
colonies. They prayed for a restoration of those rights ; but at 
th» same time expressed no idea of diminishing the pow- 
er of the mother country, or lessening the dignity of parliament, 
In the mean time, the sons of liberty, who were very desirous 
of having delegates sent to the next congress, upon the assem- 
bly's declining to appoint them, contrived to collect a meet- 
ing of their fellow citizens on March 5th. When assembled^ 
there was a confused cry of " Congress or no congress." Af- 
ter considerable altercation, the tories had recourse to com* 
pulsive arguments, a species of reasoning, for which their op» 
ponents, were not prepared, till some of them repaired to a 
cooper's yard from whence they carried to the assistance of 
their friends a number of hoop poles reduced to a length suit" 
able for action. Thus armed, they soon put the tories to 
flight by their own weapons, who finding themselves worsted- 
and fearing lest captain Sears should at the head of a mob, do 
them some serious injury, readily agreed to a provincial con- 
vention, which otherwise would not have taken place. Thu^ 
this petty encounter entirely turned the scale in respect to this 
province. 

The first action during the war, which soon after ensued v 
was fought, between the king's troops and the American mili- 
tia at Lexington, Massachusetts on the lyth April 1775. 
Of the former 85 were killed, 180 wounded and 28 made 
prisoners. Total 273. Of the latter 50 were killed 34 wound- 
ed and 4 taken prisoners. 

During these transactions, at Boston, events of great impor- 
tance took place in other parts of America. The fortresses 
of Crown point and Ticonderoga having been occupied by the 
Americans sometime before, the reduction of Canada appear- 
ed to congress to be a matter of no great difficulty. For this 
purpose, they, therefore,, sent on general Montgomery with a 
iexv troops from this colony and New England. This illus* 
Jrious soldier, who was a native of Ireland, had been an officer 
in the British service ; but after having resided in this country 
<br several years, he became one of the most zealous advo- 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 79 

cates in behalf of the liberties of America. He had married 
the sister of the late Chancellor Livingston of this state and on 
parting with her, endeavoured to console her with these re- 
markable words, " You shall never blush, for your Montgom- 
ery ." After taking possession of St. John's and Montreal, ho 
hastened on to Quebec, and arrived before its walls, on l'6th 
December 1775, where the garrison consisted of 1520 men, 
while the troops under his command did not exceed 800. But 
notwithstanding the great majority against him and the in- 
clemency of the weather, he proceeded to erect works, as if 
he had been sure of success. He believed, that his men, who 
had behaved so well upon former occasions, would not forsake 
him upon the present emergency and that the militia undei 
Sir Guy Carleton would not fight, against the cause, in which 
he had embarked. 

Under these impressions, he, without dismay, proceeded to 
storm the garrison, on the last day of the year 1775 and after 
difficulties almost insurmountable got near the guard house, 
when he, his aid-de-camp captain Cheeseman, and several 
other officers were killed. The firing from the guard house 
ceased immediately after; as the enemy quit their post and the 
assailants, had it not been for the unfortunate fall of their lea- 
er, might have accomplished their object. But the deputy 
quarter master general Campbell having assumed the com- 
mand unhappily ordered a retreat, when by proper exertions, 
victory might have been the result. The general's body was 
found soon after the engagement, and an elegant coffin was- 
prepared in which he was decently interred on the third day 
after his death. 

The loss of this gallant officer, who thus fell in the prime of 
life and in the zenith of his glory was deeply lamented. His 
amiable disposition, his agreeable manners and family con- 
nections had, in private life, endeared him to a numerous cir- 
cle of valuable friends ; while the transcendency of his milita- 
ry talents, as well as his zeal in the cause of liberty, rendered 
him highly valuable as a public officer. Congress on the 15th 
of January 1776 resolved, " that to express the veneration of 
the United Colonies for their late General Richard Montgom- 
ery and the deep sense they entertain of the many signal and 
important services of that gallant officer and to transmit to fu- 
ture ages, as examples worthy of imitation, his patriotism, con- 
duct, boldness of enterprise, insuperable perseverance and 
contempt of danger and death, a monument be procured from 
France with an inscription sacred to his memory and express 
sive of his amiable character and heroic achievements," Thi? 



80 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

monument was afterwards erected in front of St. Paul'- 
church in this city, and well deserves the notice of the curious. 
On 8th. July 1818, his remains were removed from Quebec, 
where they had laid for nearly 40 years, and deposited by order 
of the state legislature with the greatest solemnity, in a vault 
under the spot, where the monument stands. 

The news of the commencement of hostilities at Lexington 
having arrived at New- York, April 23d, no time was lost by 
captain Sears (or as he was then called by some king Sears) and 
captain John Lamb to convene a meeting of the people, when 
it was resolved that no vessels should be permitted to sail to 
Quebec, Newfoundland, Georgia or Boston and that the cus- 
tom house should, in the mean time, be closed. The chief 
officer of that department, intimidated by the threatening as- 
pect of affairs, presented the keys to captain Sears, and the mer- 
chants, whose vessels had been cleared out, deemed it expe- 
dient to prevent them from sailing. Soon after a committee 
of 100 persons was appointed for the purpose of preserving 
good order in the city and county. On May 6th. an associa- 
tion was formed consisting of upwards of 1000 of the prin- 
cipal inhabitants, who firmly agreed that they would support 
the continental congress and the provincial convention in the 
measures, which they should adopt for the maintenance of their 
just rights and that they would cheerfully unite with theii 
general committee in the preservation of good order amongst 
the inhabitants. In this city, however, the people, were far 
from being united. The friends of the ministry were nume- 
rous ; but under existing circumstances, they deemed it neces- 
sary to conceal their sentiments. 

The New- York convention having resolved upon the re- 
moval of the cannon from the battery^ that business was en- 
trusted to Captain Sears, who, with a view to accomplish it. 
set out with a number of his friends, on the night of 22d Au- 
gust. In order to intimidate them, they were fired upon by 
the Asia a British ship of 64 guns commanded by captain 
Vandeput ; but notwithstanding this opposition they accom- 
plished their object. As some of the houses had been struck 
by the shot, it occasioned great alarm among the inhabitants, 
many of whom removed with great precipitation ; but as Van- 
derput had no intention of injuring the city, matters were soon 
so adjusted as to quiet their apprehensions in regard to the 
Asia. 

The second continental congress had assembled at Phila- 
delphia May 10th and on l6th June following, they unani- 
mously elected Georce Washington "general and com- 



UNDER THE BRiriiH, 3f 

mander in chief of the army of the united colonics." an ap- 
pointment, which gave great satisfaction throughout the con- 
tinent. On the 2d July he reached head quarters, which were 
then at Cambridge Massachusetts. 

The conduct of the New-Yorkers not answering the wishes 
of the sons of liberty, Captain Sears, on 2d January x 77&, 
went to General Washington in person and urged the necessi- 
ty of its being secured by American forces. But the general 
being stationed in the environs of Boston, which was then in 
possession of the British, could not spare a man. By the 
zeal of Governor Trumbull of Connecticut, and the activity 
of General Lee about 1200 militia were embodied and ready 
to march for this city on the 22d. General Lee, who was 
(hen detained at Stamford within 50 miles of New-York, by 
the gout, could not accompany the troops ; but deeming, that 
in the present instant, delays might be peculiarly dangerous, 
he sent on a pan of them, under the charge of captain Sears 
and set out with the remainder in person, on the 4th Februa- 
ry . Their arrival threw the inhabitants into great conster- 
nation, as the enemy had declared, that if any troops should 
come in, they would burn the city. On the other hand Gen- 
eral Lee had given out, that " if the men of war should set 
one house on fire, in consequence of his coming, he would 
chain a hundred of their friends together by the neck and make 
the house their funeral pile." And it is more than probable, 
that if the British had executed their threat, he would have 
retaliated in some dreadful manner. 

On the 17th March, the British evacuated Boston and on 
the day following, General Washington sent off five regiments- 
to New-York under General Heath. The rest excepting a 
few, which were left at Boston, followed soon after. As it 
was an object of vast importance to the Americans to retain, 
the possession of this city, the most strenuous exertions be- 
came necessary for putting it in the best posture of defence. 
Congress, therefore, authorized General Washington to direct 
as many fire rafts, row gallies, armed boats and floating batte- 
ries to be built, as might be judged requisite for the immediate 
defence of that port and of Hudson's river. On the 3d June, 
they, likewise, resolved, that 13,800 militia should be employ- 
ed to reinforce the army. 

On the 7th June Richard Henry Lee, Esq. one of the del- 
egates to Congress from Virginia moved in that body for a 
declaration of independence. On the 10th. the farther con* 
sideration of the business was postponed till the 1st of July ; 
bat that no time might be lost, Messieurs Thomas Jefferson. 



S2 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

of Virginia, John Adams, of Massachusetts, Dr. Benjamin 
Franklin of Pennsylvania, Rcger Sherman, of Connecticut 
and R. R. Livingston of New- York* were appointed a com- 
mittee to prepare the said declaration. The 1st of July ha- 
ving arrived the important subject was accordingly taken up, 
and on the ever memorable 4th July 177o* the United 
States op America were declared by their representatives 
in congress assembled, to be Free, Sovereign, and Indepen- 
dent. 



CHAPTER IX 

From the declaration of Independence in 1776 to the evac- 
uation of this city by the British, 25th. November 17S3. 

On July 8th. at 12 o'clock, the declaration of independence- 
was proclaimed at the State House of Philadelphia, amidst the 
greatest acclamations. In consequence of general orders, it 
-was, likewise, read at the head of each brigade of the conti- 
nental army at New- York and every where received with the 
utmost demonstrations of joy. On the 12th of the same month 
lord Howe with the British fleet reached Staten Island, from 
whence he soon after sent up a flag to New-York with a letter 
addressed to " George Washington, Esq." ; but the general 
refused to receive it, " as the address was not in a stile cor- 
responding with the dignity of the situation, which he held." 
On the 20th. another letter was sent by adjutant general Pat* 
terson directed to " George Washington, &c. &c. &c. " but 
this al*o was refused, as he said that " it did not acknowledge 
the public character, with which he was invested by congress 
and in no other character would he have any intercourse with 
his lordship." The communication, however, to which these 
letters gave rise, afforded an opportunity to General Patterson, 
to inform General Washington, that the commissioners viz. 
Admiral Lord Howe and his brother General Howe were en- 
trusted with great powers, to which General Washington re- 
plied, that their powers appeared to consist in nothing but 
granting pardons and that as the Americans were only de- 

* The two first of these venerable patriots have been presidents o.f thr^ 
i.'nited States and are still living. 



UNDEB, THE BRITISH. 8S 

.fending their indisputable rights, they had been guilty of no 
crime, and, of course, required no forgiveness. During the 
whole of the conversation Gen. Patterson addressed the gene- 
ral by the title of Excellency and behaved with the utmost 
politeness. 

Nothing now remained but an appeal to arms ; and hos>- 
tilities began as soon as the British troops were collected at 
their destined stations. But the character of the forces, whicli 
were about to engage was widely different. The British were 
numerous and accustomed to military operations, while the 
Americans were inferior in numbers, newly embodied and 
poorly provided with the munitions of war. The army of the 
former consisted of nearly 25,000 men, while that of the latter 
amounted to only 17,225, many of whom were unfit for duty 
and at different stations. On the 22d August, the British 
landed on Long Island, with forty pieces of cannon under 
cover of their ships, between two small towns, Utrecht and 
Gravesend, not far from the Narrows, on the nearest shore to 
Staten Island. On the morning of the 27th. soon after da} ? 
break, a bloody engagement took place between the king's 
troops aided by the Hessians, and the Americans. The latter 
inspirited by their generals and the presence of Washington 
ibr some time, fought with all the bravery of men, whom the 
love of freedom animates to deeds of heroism ; but pressed bv 
superior numbers and thrown into confusion, they gave way 
on every side and fled to the woods with precipitation. The 
Americans were completely defeated. Ninety-four commis- 
sioned officers, amongst whom were Generals Sullivan, lord 
Stirling and Udell, together with 1006 privates, in all 1097 
were made prisoners. It was, likewise, believed, that between 
4 and 500 had been killed, drowned, &c. Only six brass 
ordnance were taken. Of the British and Hessians, the loss 
in killed and wounded did not exceed 344, of whom only 63 
were slain. 

On the 29th, General Washington called a council of war, 
who after taking into consideration their great inferiority hi 
numbers, as well as other circumstances, resolved unanimous- 
ly, that their safety depended on a speedy retreat. The em- 
barkation of the troops was committed to the care of General 
JW'Dougal, who, on the evening of that day, was at Brooklyn 
ferry at 8 o'clock, the hour appointed for the commencement 
of this important movement. But here several unexpected 
difficulties arose. The militia, who were to have crossed first 
had not arriveu^and about 9 o'clock the tide of ebb made and 
the wind began to blow strong from the North East, in conse- 



84 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

quence of which, it seemed impossible to effect the retreat in the 
course of the night ; as the row boats were (ew in number^ 
and the sail boats could make little progress against wind and 
tide. But in the midst of these discouragements, Providence 
wonderfully interfered in their favour. About 11 o'clock, 
the wind died away and soon after blew fresh from the South 
West, which rendered the sail boats useful and made the pas- 
sage to this city easy and expeditious. A thick fog, likewise* 
came on, about two o'clock in the morning (August 30th.) 
which heavily hung on Long Island, while on the New-York 
side it was clear. The fog and wind continued to favour the 
retreat, till the whole army about 9000 in number, with all the- 
field artillery, the most valuable heavy ordnance, ammunition, 
provisions, horses, &c. were brought safe over and in about 
half an hour after the lines were finally abandoned, the fog 
cleared up and the British were seen taking possession of the; 
American works. 

General Washington's situation after the evacuation of 
Long Island was truly distressing. The check, which the 
detachment had sustained, dispirited a great proportion of the 
troops and filled the minds of the militia with impatience to 
return ; and on a great part of his army, he could have little 
or no dependence. In the midst of difficulties, however, his 
presence of mind did not forsake him. He divided that part 
>)( his army, which was on the island of New-York, into three 
divisions, one of which remained in the city, the 2d was sta- 
tioned at ilarlcem and the 3d at Kingsbridge about 15 miles 
distance from the city and caused batteries to be erected on 
every spot, where he thought they would be most effectual in 
annoying the enemy. But, in this instance, a far superior 
i'orce rendered his well concerted plans of little avail. 

The royalists on Long Island, between whom and the 
Ame;icans ; there was only the East river or Sound about a 
rnile wide, had, for some days, manifested a desire to cross 

/over to this side. Accordingly, on the 15th September, a 
strong division was sent oft' by General Howe from Newton 
Inlet, which, about midday, arrived at Kip's bay, about three 
miles above the city. From thence the Americans, altera 
feeble attempt to oppose them, made a precipitate retreat to* 
wards Kingsbridge. General Putnam, who commanded the" 
troops in New- York, consisting of 3500 men, conducted them 
by a road, which lies along the North River, by which means 
he avoided an encounter with the enemy, and joined the main 
army, who withdrew to the North part of the island, where 
the strength of their forces was collected. The city being 



\JNDER THE BBITlSiT. 80 

thus abandoned by the Americans, the British obtained peace- 
able possession. 

On the 2lst of September, a few days after the city had 
fallen into the hands of the enemy, a most dreadful fire took 
place, by which about 1000 houses being about one fourth ol 
the whole were reduced to ashes Trinity church, with the 
parsonage, public charity school and a Lutheran church, situ- 
ate on the spot, where Grace church now stands, were among 
the buildings consumed. This fire originated in a dram shop., 
at Whitehall slip, about one o'clock in the morning. It was 
reported, at the time, that it had broke out in several places 
at once, in consequence of which it was believed by some, that 
this dreadful calamity was the effect of design ; but there is 
reason to suppose, that such an opinion was erroneous. The 
weather had, for some time, been dry, there was a brisk south- 
erly wind ; the greatest part of the buildings were then of 
wood and covered with shingles, instead of slate or tiles, from 
which causes, the flames soon caught the neighbouring houses^ 
spread with inconceivable violence and occasioned all the sub- 
sequent havoc. It may likewise be added, that (e.w of the in- 
habitants remained in the city, that the fire engines and pumps, 
were in bad order, and that they had not then a fire depart- 
ment so well organized as we have, at present. Two regi- 
ments were despatched to the spot, as soon as the danger ap- 
peared alarming and many boats full of men were immediate- 
ly sent from the fleet, by whose united exertions, under God. 
the remaining part of the city was saved from destruction. 
Persons of veracity, who observed the progress of the flames 
were decidedly of opinion, ihat the calamity was merely acci- 
dental, and the probable consequence of a number of sailors 
being on a frolic, at Whitehall slip on the night, when it hap- 
pened. 

General Howe, with a view of enclosing the Americans on 
all sides, in their fastnesses near Kingsbridge, landed on the 
morning of the 12th. of October, on Frog's neck, with the 
greater part of his forces. Such, however, were the impedi- 
ments, which General Washington had thrown in their way 
and their ignorance of the country, that they did not get upon 
the continent till the 18th, on which day, a fleet having on 
board 4000 Hessians, 1000 Waldeckers, 2000 baggage hor- 
ses, &c. arrived at this port. In the mean time, General 
Washington withdrew his troops to White Plains in West 
Chester county, leaving a strong garrison at Fort Washington, 
the occupancy of which it was thought, would give employ- 
ment to a large body of the British and thus prevent them 

H 



%6 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

from joining the troops under General Howe : so that, with 
the exception of this fort, the royal army had possession of 
the whole island. 

Howe, perceiving that it was not in his power to bring 
Washington to a general engagement, on the 5th November 
suddenly moved from the several posts, which he had taken 
in front of the Americans and advanced towards Kingsbridge 
on the North river. On the morning of the lCth. the British 
assisted by two columns of Hessians and Waldeckers under 
General Knyphausen made four different attacks upon Fort 
Washington, which notwithstanding every exertion on the 
part of its defenders, was obliged to surrender, on condition, 
that th- y should be considered as prisoners of war and that 
the officers should keep their baggage and side arms. The 
number of prisoners including officers amounted to about 
3000. After this disaster, the Americans retreated through 
the Jersey. 

At no period since the commencement of hostilities had 
their prospects been so gloomy ; but in the midst of all these 
calamities the mind of their illustrious chief remained unbro- 
ken. On the night of the 25th. December, he surprised about 
1000 Hessians, at Trenton, all of whom he took prisoners and 
sent off to Philadelphia. Emboldened by his success, he a 
few days thereafter advanced with great secrecy to the neigh- 
bourhood of Princeton, where there were three regiments of 
British troops. These he suddenly attacked, threw into great 
confusion and compelled to retreat. These so unexpected 
events struck the British with astonishment, as they consider- 
ed the affairs of Washington to be desperate. They, likewise, 
greatly animated tht drooping spirits of the Americans, turn- 
ed the scale in their favour and gave quite a new turn to their 
affairs. 

The conduct of the British towards the prisoners taken at 
Fort Washington, as well as those, who had been sent in from 
New-Jersey, was cruel in the extreme and throws an indelible 
stain on the character of Howe, who tolerated such enormities. 
Many of the American officers were robbed of their baggage, 
side arms, hats, &c. and otherwise grossly insulted. Colonel 
Rawlings and three other wounded officers were put into a 
common cart, dragged through the city in derision and set 
down at the door of an old waste house near Brideweli, which 
a few months before, he deemed unfit to be used as barracks 
for his private soldiers ; but which he then gladly accepted as 
an asylum for himself and ftiends. The officers were admit-, 
ted to parole, and such houses w r ere, in general, appropriated 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 87 

for their places of residence. Their supply of provisions was 
scanty and only two bushels and a half of sea coals allowed to 
each of their tire places per we k. The privates,, during a 
severe winter, were closely confined in churches, sugar houses 
and other open buildings, where many hundreds of them perish- 
ed not only by cold ; but, likewise by hunger, their allowance 
of provisions being so scanty as to be scarcely sufficient for 
the support of life and of so loathsome a quality, that nothing 
but dire necessity could have induced them to eat it. The 
flux raged amongst them to an alarming degree and occasioned 
dreadful havoc, in consequence of which the churches, &c. in 
which they were confined were filthy beyond description. 
Seven dead bodies have been seen in one of t;.em, at the same 
time, lying in their excrements. On these occasions, the un- 
fortunate survivors were subjected to the scurrility and low 
jokes of the British soldiers and still more so of the royalists,, 
who, at that time, constituted, by far the greater part of the 
inhabitants. But amidst their sufferings, great as they were, 
they evinced a patriotism, which would have done honour to 
the citizens of ancient Rome, even in her best days. They 
spurned at the proposals, which were often and most earnestly 
recommended to their acceptance of enlisting in the British 
service and preferred the greatest hardships, even death itself 
to abandoning the sacred cause which they had espoused. 
After general Washington's success in the Jerseys, the obdu- 
racy and malevolence of the royalists, in some measure, sub- 
sided. The surviving prisoners were ordered to be exchang- 
ed, towards the end of January 1777, many of whom were 
so enfeebled by their sufferings, that in crawling to the ves- 
sels, which were to carry them ofT, several fell down dead in 
the streets. Although they had not been long in confinement, 
such had been the severity of the conduct exercised towards 
them, that they in general appeared like mere skeletons and 
many of them died almost immediately after their discharge 
from prison. 

On the whole, Howe was a miserable politician. He ex- 
pected to strike terror into the Americans, by his cruelty to- 
wards those, whom the fate of war had thrown into his power ; 
but as he knew nothing of the character of those, whom he 
was sent to subdue, he entirely missed his aim. Had he pur- 
sued a different course, he might have had a better chance of 
gaining his object. General Gates in speaking upon this sub- 
ject, olten expressed himself to the following purport. " Had 
General Howe caused the prisoners and Jersey inhabitants, 
when subdued to be treated with as much humanity and kind- 



88 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

ness as Sir Guv Carleton* did towards his prisoners, it would 
have been all over with the Americans. " 

When the royal army entered the Jerseys, soon after the 
Americans had left this island, the inhabitants, in general, re- 
mained in their houses and thousands received printed pro- 
tections. But these did not save the people either from insult 
or plunder. Their property was taken or destroyed, without 
regard to persons. The Hessians 'could not read protec- 
tions and the British soldiers thought that they were as well 
entitled to a share of the spoil as the i essians. Neither age 
nor sex was spared. Furniture was destroyed and burnt j 
houses were rendered uninhabitable and the people left with- 
out provisions : for every orse, cow, ox, hog or fowl, which, 
they could find, was carried off. Helpless females were, like- 
wise in many instances, treated in the most brutal manner, 
by these military ruffians. The inhabitants wert so exaspe- 
rated at these enormities, that they flew to arms immediately 
after the army had left Trenton and forming themselves into 
parties, severely retaliated upon their inhumun oppressors, as 
often as they could find an opportunity. The militia speedily 
collected and the Americans, in a few days, so overran the 
Jerseys, that the royal troops were confined to the narrow 
limits of Brunswick and Amboy ; and in each of these pla- 
ces, they were so completely hemmed in, that they durst not 
stir out to forage except in large parties, and even then they 
seldom returned without loss. 

As the colonies had, for some time, been declared to be 
rebels and out of the king's protection, they could no longer 
submit to governors foisted upon them by royal authority. 
They, as well as their forefathers had suffered too much by 
the tyranny and rapacity of such public plunderers. They, 
therefore, wished to have governors and other rulers of their 
own choice. Congress had advised, that each of the states 
should institute such form of government as should be deemed 
most suitable to their respective exigencies. The capital of 
this state being then in possession of she British, it was impos- 
sible for their deligates to meet here. They accordingly as- 

* This worthy general was then governor of Canada. He treated 
the American prisoners, with so great tenderness, that many of them, 
on being asked, after their return whether they would be willing to fight 
against him, immediately answered in the negative. If a similar ques- i 
tion had been proposed, to those, who had the misfortune of falling into 
the clutches of the merciless General Howe, actuated by a spirit of re- 
venge against himself as well as the officers and soldiers under his 
command, they would have answered in a very different manner. 



UNDER THE BRITlSlY. 89 

sembled at Kingston ; where a constitution was adopted. 
April 20th. 1777. This instrument was revised in )801, 
when some trifling alterations were made. But in the year 
1822, a convention being called for the purpose, it was so ma- 
terially changed that, since that time, we may be said to live 
under" a new constitution. Both, however, were founded 
upon republican principles and a careful perusal of the first 
will abundantly shew, that the principles of civil government 
and religious liberty were well understood at that early pe- 
riod and entitled those, who dared to form it, amidst an host 
of surrounding enemies, to the honourable appellation of pa- 
triots. In conformity to that constitution, the worthy citizen, 
George Clinton, who for about twenty years thereafter, dis- 
charged with fidelity the duties of that important office, was 
elected governor, and the first session of the legislature was 
heldatPoughkeepsie in 1778, since which time, there has been 
without interruption, an annual, as well as several extra sessions. 

Towards the end of June 1777, General Howe collected at 
Sandy Hook a great part of his army from this city as well as 
from New-Jersey, from which, however, he did not sail till 23d 
July following. General Washington was, for some time 
greatly perplexed, to ascertain their destination. At last 
however, he understood, that they had gone to the Southward 
and thither he bent his course. To that quarter the fate of 
war between the armies immediately under the two command- 
ers in chief, seemed, for some time, to be in a great measure 
concentred ; but my limits do not admit of taking any far- 
ther notice of these operations than to mention that a bloody 
battle was fought between the Americans and the royal army, 
at Brandy wine, in the state of Maryland September 11th. 
when the former were defeated and our late illustrious guest, 
General La Fayette, was severely wounded. 

In the northern states, the campaign wore a less friendly 
aspect to the royal interests. The ministry had projected an 
expedition to New-England as the most effectual mode of re- 
ducing the country to subjection. An army of 7000 chosen 
troops had been put under the orders of General Burgoyne, 
who were to be assisted by levies from Quebec, as well as such 
of the Canadian Indians, as could be induced to join in the 
British service. His first attempts were as successful as could 
have been reasonably expected. Ticonderoga and Mount 
Independence were taken and, in short, beseemed to carry all 
before him. The loss of these two fortresses were severely 
felt by the Americans, concerning the state of which, their in- 
formation had been very incorrect. On this subject, General 

H 2 



90 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

Washington thus expressed himself in a letter to General Sul- 
ivan. " The evacuation of Ticonderoga and Mount Inde- 
pendence is an event of chagrin and surprise ; not apprehend- 
ed nor within the compass of my reasoning. This stroke is 
severe, indeed, and has distressed us much. But notwith- 
standing, things at present, wear a dark and gloomy aspect, I 
hope a spirited opposition will check the progress of General 
Burgoyne ? s arms ; and that the confidence derived from 
success, will hurry him into measures, that nill, in their con- 
sequences, be favourable to us. 71 It soon appeared, that the 
hopes of the American general were well founded. 

Burgoyne elated with success, proceeded as if he thought it 
impossible, that any thing could impede his progress. Re- 
gardless of consequences, he persevered in his mad career, till 
he reached Saratoga, where, without the possibility of getting 
aid from any quarter, he found himself hemmed in, on every 
side, by the Americans, under general Gates. The situation 
of his army was now desperate. Their provisions were nearly 
exhausted ; most of their Indian allies had forsaken them and 
the possibility of any British army, from below, being able to 
co-operate with them was doubtful. To extricate his troops 
from these difficulties, Burgoyne had no alternative except by 
forcing his way through his opponents. On the 7th October, 
he accordingly risked an engagement, in which he was defeat- 
ed with great loss. On the 13th. Burgoyne, finding, that the 
troops had only three days provision in store and no appa- 
rent means of retreat remaining, called a council of war con- 
sisting of all the generals, field officers and captains com- 
manding corps ; by whose unanimous advice he was induced 
to open a treaty with General Gates. !n this treaty, which 
was finally ratified on the 17th of October, the British forces 
consisting of 6000 men laid down their arms ; having pledg- 
ed themselves not to serve in America, during the war and 
stipulated, that they should be permitted to return to their na- 
tive country. The surrender of Burgoyne's army led to the 
immediate evacuation of Ticonderoga and Mount Indepen- 
dence and the provincials were once more sole masters of the 
North. 

A medal was struck at Paris in commemoration of this im- 
portant event. The original, which is of gold and very large, 
is in possession of the general's family. On one side is a fine 
likeness of himself in profile surrounded by the words Hora- 
tio Gates strenuo duct; i. e. an active general, and at the 
bottom comitia Americana, expressive of its having been vot- 
ed by the congress of the United States of America. On the 



UNDER THE BRITISH. QL 

reverse, Burgoyne, in the net of delivering his sword, occu- 
pies the fore ground about midway between the American and 
British armies, which are represented on the right and left in 
the rear. Above are the words salus regionum Septentrion ; 
and beneath, haste ad Saratogam in deditione accepto, die 
XVII October M,DCCLXXVII which may be thus trans- 
lated. " The safety of the Northern states, in consequence of 
the surrender of the enemy 17th October 1777-" 

This illustrious man, who was a native of England, had 
been an officer in the British service ; but having resided for a 
long lime in this country, he saw the wrongs, to which the peo- 
ple were subjected and warmly espoused their cause Congress 
entertaining a high opinion of his patriotism and military ta- 
lents, appointed him a major-general in the army of the United 
Colonies, 17th June 1775. He spent the latter part of his 
life in dignified retirement at his seat called Rose Hili, which 
is elegantly situated near Bellevue, with a fine view of the 
East river and the Long Island shore and about two and an 
half miles to the Eastward of the City Hall. 

He closed his mortal career in March 180(5, and agree- 
ably to his request, was interred, in the cemetery of St. 
PauFs church without any parade. A few days before his 
death, he wrote to his friend Dr. Samuel L. Mitchell, then at 
the city Washington, on business, and closed his letter dated 
New- York 27th February with these remarkable expressions, 
written with a firm and steady hand — " I am very weak and 
have evident signs of an approaching; dissoltuion. But I have 
lived long enough ; since I have lived to see a mighty people, 
animated with the spirit to be free and governed by transcen- 
dent abilities and honour/' 

The capture of Burgoyne was by far the most fatal disaster, 
which had occurred to the British in this country. It, for some 
time, gave a death blow to their hopes and inspired the Ameri- 
cans, with a confidence, to which, some part of them, had here- 
tofore been, in a great measure, strangers. To every part of the 
continent the news of this event must have been highly im- 
j— >rtant ; but to the inhabitants of this city, in which, at that 
time, there were few, except British soldiers, sailors and roy- 
alists, the tidinirs must have been terrible. It may, likewise, 
be observed, that we have, perhaps, no instance in history, 
which more illustrated the justice of the old proverb " Help 
your self and your friends ivill like you the better"* ', than the 
capture of Burgoyne's army. It was now evident, that the 
Americans could now help themselves, in consequence of 
which they soon found friends, who were able and willing to 
assist them. 



02 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

The news of the Saratoga convention had no sooner been 
communicated to the court of France by the American com- 
missioners than they were almost instantly received and pub- 
licly recognized in their official character. The capture of 
Burgoyne's army convinced the French, that the opposition of 
the Americans to Great Britain was not owing to a faction, or a 
few leading men, who had gotten into power ; but that it must 
have been the work of the great body of the people to make 
such an effort as not only to stop the progress of a conquering 
army 5 but, likewise, to take them prisoners. It was, there- 
fore, determined by the French court to acknowledge the in- 
dependence of the United States of America. Negociations 
were entered into for the formation of treaties between the two 
nations, which were brought to a close as speedily as the im- 
portance of the subject would admit and were formally signed 
at Paris early in the year 1788. On the 3d of May following, 
congress received from France sundry important despatches 
among which to their inconceivable joy, were a treaty of ami- 
ty and commerce and one of alliance between his most chris- 
tian majesty the king of France and the United States of 
America. The treaties were duly and separately considered 
on the next day and both were unanimously ratified. 

After the completion of this important business, the people 
were in raptures. The several brigades of the army were, by 
General Washington's orders assembled on the morning of 
the 6th. when their chaplains offered up thanksgivings and 
delivered discourses suitable to the occasion. The discharge 
of artillery and other military parades took place amidst the 
loud huzzas of surrounding thousands 5 and the remainder of 
the day was passed in universal joy. That the Americans 
might have achieved their independence, without the aid of 
any foreign power is more than probable 5 but had they been 
left to fight their own battles, it amounts to a moral certainty, 
that the contest could not have been so soon terminated and 
that it must have been much more sanguinary in its conse- 
quences. To the friends of liberty in every part of the United 
States, this unexpected news, therefore, afforded the highest 
cause for congratulation. 

When these treaties were notified to the court of London, 
they produced an immediate declaration of war against 
France. Ministers, however, now perceived, that they had 
gone too far in respect to America. They, accordingly, by 
virtue of an act of parliament despatched commissioners to 
congress for the avowed purpose of reconciling the difference, 
between the two countries : but as they arrived soon after the 



UNDER THE BRITISH. VO 

surrender of Burgoyne and the conclusion of the treaties with 
France, they were received with the utmost indifference. 
The general answer was, that the day of reconciliation was 
past, as Great Britain by her tyranny and haughtiness had ex- 
tinguished all filial regard in the breasts of the Americans, 
and congress resolved, as soon as they had examined their 
commission and other papers therewith connected, that not- 
withstanding the unjust claims from which the war had origi- 
nated and the savage manner, in which it had been conducted, 
they would be ready to enter on a treaty of peace and com- 
merce as soon as the king of Great Britain should evince a 
sincere disposition to that purpose either, by an explicit ac- 
knowledgment of the independence of the i nited States or 
by the withdr awing of his fleets and armies This was 17th 
June 1778. 

On the day following, Sir Henry Clinton, now raised to the 
chief command, in consequence of secret orders, caused his 
troops to evacuate Philadelphia about 3 o'clock in the morn- 
ing. They proceeded to Gloucester point, 3 miles below the 
city and before ten, the whole had safely crossed the Delaware 
and arrived in New-Jersey. On his march towards New- 
York, he was followed and grievously harrassed by the Amer- 
icans, whom Washington had ordered to obstruct his progress. 
No sooner had Sir Henry Clinton evacuated Philadelphia 
with his army than Lord Howe prepared to sail with the fleet 
for New-York. Repeated calms retarded his passage down 
the Delaware, so that he could not arrive at Sandy Hook, 
with his transport till the 29:h. Sir Henry arrived on the 
30th after which his artillery, baggage, and troops were re- 
moved from the main land to Sandy Hook and from thence 
to this city as speedily as possible 

Lord Howe had scarcely effected the transportation of the 
troops, than he received intelligence, on 7th July that a strong 
fleet, under Count d'Estaign had arrived from France. It 
consisted of 12 ships of the line besides frigates and had 6000 
soldiers on board. To oppose this force, the British had only 
six ships of the line, 3 of 50 guns, 2 of 40 and some frigates ; 
yet they so posted themselves before the entrance into New- 
York that the French prudently declined an engagement. 
The fact is, that Lord Howe had the advantage of possessing 
the harbour formed by Sandy Hook, the entrance from which 
js covered by a bar, from whence the inlet passes to New- 
York. The American pilots had declared it to be impossible, 
to carry the large ships of D'Estaing's squadron over the bar 
and as General Washington had pressed him to proceed to 



94 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

Newport, Rhode Island, he left the Hook July 22d and, in a 
few hours was out of sight. For some time the war was in 
general carried on at a distance and nothing material occurred, 
as respects this city. 

The winter of 17JS and 1779 was uncommonly mild, whilst 
that of the year ensuing was severe beyond any, which had 
ever been experienced in this country. The frost was so in- 
tense, that troops of cavalry passed over on the ice between 
this city and Staten Island and heavy artillery were drawn 
from the one shore to the other. During this extreme severity 
of the weather, the poor of the city were not the only suffe- 
rers. It was not unusual for two or three families of those in 
middling circumstances to crowd together, in order that they 
might enjoy the benefit of one scanty fire. 

On the 19th day of May in the same year, there was an- 
other uncommon phenomenon, which deserves some notice. 
An universal darkness came on between the hours of ten and 
eleven o'clock forenoon, and for several hours, continued to 
encrease. It remained with little intermission till midnight, 
when the wind having shifted, it was dissipated and suc- 
ceeded by a bright moon and star light. If there was some- 
thing extraordinary in the thickness of this darkness, the 
greatness of its extent was no less surprising. It was observ- 
ed as far to the Eastward as Falmouth. To the Westward, it 
reached to the southernmost part of Connecticut and to Alba- 
ny ; and extended all along the sea coast to the Southward. 
The degree to which it arose was different in different places ; 
but in most parts of the country, it was so great in the day- 
time, that people could not tell the hour either by clock or 
watch, nor manage their domestic affairs without the light of 
candles. The birds having sung their evening songs disap- 
peared ; pigeons and fowls retired to roost ; the cocks crowed 
as at day-break, objects could not be distinguished except at 
a very small distance and every thing bore the gloom and ap- 
pearance of night. 

To account for this strange phenomenon is difficult. It 
was supposed by some to have been owing to the clouds being 
highly charged with smoke, which they had been collecting, 
for some time, from the fires in the back country. It was 
then a common custom to make large fires in the woods for 
the purpose of clearing the lands in the new settlements ; 
and this had been practised in the spring of that year to a 
much greater extint than usual, owing to the interruption, 
which had been given to that business from the commence- 
ment of hostilities. In the western parts of New Hampshire. 



UNDER THE BRTTISH. 9j 

Massachusetts and in Vermont, prodigious fires had been kept 
up for a vast number of miles all along the frontiers. In this 
manner, the people in the new towns had been employed for 
two or three weeks ; besides, which very extensive fires had 
raged in the woods for several days, before they could be ex- 
tinguished. The weather being clear, the air weighty and 
the winds light and variable, the smoke instead of dispersing 
rose and constantly collected in the air, till the atmosphere 
was so over loaded with it in combination with other vapours 
as to prove the cause of the preceding darkness.* 

On the 10th July, a second fleet arrived at Rhode Island 
from France under the command of the Chevalier de Ternay, 
consisting of seven ships of the line, 'two frigates, &c. and 
having about 6000 veteran troops under count de Rocham- 
beau an officer ©f great talents, and experience. As the aid, 
which the Americans had now received was considerable as 
well as unexpected, the joy, which it occasioned was great, 
The assembly of Rhode Island, in a body, congratulated the 
general on his arrival and he, in return assured them, that the 
troops which he commanded, were only the first division of a 
larger^ force, which the king, his master, would send to their 
assistance The French troops said he " are under the 
strictest discipline, and acting under the orders of General 
Washington, will live with the Americans as their brethren." 
To serving under General Washington as commander-in-chief 
of the allied army, the French officers might have been some- 
what reluctant, on the score of etiquette ; but to obviate that 
difficulty, the American general had been appointed Lieuten- 
ant general of his most Christian Majesty's troops in Ameri- 
America and vice admiral of the White Flag. 

No sooner was it communicated to the British, that the pro- 
vincials had been strengthed by aid from France, than they 
formed a scheme to render it ineffectual. It was agreed by 
Sir Henry Clinton and the English admiral, whose fleet con- 
sisted often sail of the line, to make an attack on the French 
vessels and allied troops at Rhode Island. Clinton embarked 
about 8000 men and proceeded to Huntington Bay on Long 

* This is assigned by Doctor Gordon in his History of the American 
revolution, as the cause of this wonderful phenomena, for which he re- 
fers to the memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences; 
Vol. I, p. 234 ; but, perhaps, it may be as ditfisultto account for it in a 
true and philosophical manner, as to ascertain the real cause of the in- 
tense cold, which prevailed, during the preceding winter. To account 
for such appearances is, sometimes, beyond the reach of human know 
ledge. 



♦)6 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

Island, mean while the militia from Massachusetts and Con* 
necticut were ordered to Rhode Island so that the allies were 
ready to give him a warm reception. But Washington having 
received intelligence of the design, crossed the North River 
with an army of about 12000 men and advancing by rapid 
movements to Kingsbridge, threatened to besiege this city. 
The English general perceiving what was intended imme- 
diately altered his plan and on the 31st returned to New- 
York with his troops from Huntington bay, where they had 
lain for several days, in consequence of which the Americans, 
likewise, withdrew from Kingsbridge, and returned by slow 
marches to their former station. 

As General Washington, who had not the least suspicion of 
Arnold's perfidy, highly esteemed him for his bravery and 
military talents, he wished to give him a command in the in- 
tended attack on this city $ but Arnold was far from relishing 
the honour. He objected to some of Washington's suite and 
urged that his lameness disqualified him from active service 
in the field, in consequence of which, he was ordered to pro- 
ceed to West Point and take the command of that garrison j 
and this was the very trust, of which he was most desirous. 

Arnold, as it afterwards appeared, though brave, was mer- 
cenary and fond of parade, and high livmg. When he en- 
tered Philadelphia after its evacuation, he made Governor 
Penn's house his head quarters, furnished it in a very costly 
manner and lived far beyond his income. Being unsuccessful 
in trade and privateering, his funds were exhausted and his 
creditors importunate, while his lust for extravagant living 
still continued. About July 1779, he exhibited many heavy 
accounts against the public, of which the commissioners re-* 
jected about one half; and on his appealing to congress, it 
was decided by that honourable body, that he had been al- 
lowed more than he had a right to demand. Disappoint- 
ed in his expectations, embarrassed in his circumstances 
and having a growing and very expensive family to support, 
lie turned his thoughts to the improvement of his fortune by 
new means. Major John Andre, adjutant general of the 
British army, a young officer of great merit had on the part of 
Sir Henry Clinton, entered into a correspondence with Arnold 
in 1779 ; but whether any attempt had been made by the 
British to corrupt his fidelity or the insidious proposal to be- 
tray the cause of freedom and the interests of his country 
originated with himself was never ascertained. The design 
however must have been, for some time, in agitation before by 
its failure, it was made known to the public. 



tJNDER THE BRITISH. 97 

For the speedy completion of the negotiation between Clin- 
ton and Arnold, the Vulture sloop of war was stationed in the 
North river, at such distance from the American posts, as 
without exciting suspicion, would serve for the necessary com- 
munication. Before this, a written correspondence had, for 
some time, been maintained between Arnold, at West Point. 
and Andre, in this city, under the fictitious names of Gustavus 
and Anderson. The time, at last arrived, when this dreadful 
plot was to be discovered. Major Andre had been landed, 
in the night, from the Vulture at a spot out of the posts of either 
army, where he had an interview with Arnold, with whom, 
he remained in private, during the next day. Circumstances 
having prevented his escape by the Vulture, he was under the 
necessity of endeavouring to return to this city by land. He 
threw aside his uniform and being dressed in the garb of a 
peasant, was furnished with, a passport by Arnold, to proceed 
to New- York, as he was employed on public business. He 

i had passed all the guards without notice and was riding along 
elated with the hopes, that he had got over every difficulty, in 
respect to his safe and speedy return. But, unhappily for him 
though providentially for the Americans, three of the New- 
York militia viz John Paulding, David Williams and 
John Van Vert* who were out on a scouting party, arrest- 
ed him in his career. Had he immediately produced his pas- 
port, he would not have been detained ; but he was thrown in- 
to the utmost confusion, offered them a large purse of gold 

: and a very valuable watch to let him proceed. He also prom- 

I ised them permanent provision and future promotion, on con- 
dition of their accompanying him to New-York. But they 
nobly spurned at his alluring proposals, and though poor, 
like true soldiers of liberty, shewed, by their conduct, that no 
money could prevent them from doing their duty. 

Immediately after the apprehension of Major Andre, he was 
conducted before Lieutenant Colonel Jameson, before whom 

, he was searched, when several papers of a public nature in 
the hand writing of Arnold, as well as returns of the forces, 
ordnance and fortifications at West Point, with the artillery 

* On the 3d November following, congress in testimony of their high 
sense of the virtuous and patriotic conduct of these men, ordered that 
each of them should receive annually the sum of $200 in specie and 
that a silver medal having on one side the inscription "Fidelity," and 
on the other Vincit amor patrle, i. e. The love of our country pre- 
vails should be delivered to each of them by the commander-in-chief 
" with a copy of the resolution and the thanks of congress for thel* 
fidelity and the eminent service they had rendered their country." 

I 



98 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

orders, critical remarks on the works, the number of men, who 
ordinarily manned them, &c. were found in his possession. 
From the above documents, it is probable, that Arnold's de- 
signs were of a very extensive nature and that he meditated 
the scheme of reannexing the colonies to Great Britain. But 
whatever his views were, they were all frustrated by the ap- 
prehension of the unfortunate Major Andre. His case was 
referred by General Washington to a board of General offi- 
cers, amongst whom were General Greene, lord Sterling, the 
marquis de la Fayette and Baron Steuben. Andre disdaining 
evasion and only desirous of placing his character in so fair 
a light as might prevent its being shaded by present circum- 
stances, voluntarily confessed more than he was asked ; and 
sought not to palliate any thing relating to himself, while he 
concealed with the most guarded caution, whatever might in- 
volve others. The board did not examine a single witness ; 
but founded their opinion merely on his own confession. In 
their report of his case, they stated, that he had often come 
ashore during the night and conversed, in a secret manner 
with Arnold ; that he changed his dress and under the ficti- 
tious name of John Anderson and a disguised habit, had pas- 
sed the American posts at Stoney and Verplank's points ; that 
he was taken 23d September, when hastening to join the 
British and that certain papers, containing intelligence for the 
enemy, were found in his boots. They, therefore, determin- 
ed, that he ought to be considered as a spy and that agreeably 
to the law of nations, he ought to suffer death. 

In vain did General Clinton intercede by letter with Gene- 
ral Washington in his behalf. General Robertson, from the 
royal army, who had been sent for the purpose, of endeavour- 
ing to save the life of this unfortunate gentleman, was permit- 
ted to land at Dobb's ferry, where he had a conference with 
General Greene ; but his efforts were equally unsuccessful. 
Having failed in his other attempts, he presented a long letter 
from Arnold to General Washington, filled with threats and 
insolently making him responsible for the torrents of blood, 
which might be shed, if he should order the execution of An- 
dre. The presenting of such a letter was no less an absurdity 
than the writing ©fit. On the 2d October 1780, Andre was 
hanged at Tappan about 28 miles North of this city. He 
met his fate with courage and composure; but regretted, that 
the usages of war would not permit him to terminate his days 
in a more honourable manner and that he was forced to die as 
a criminal and not as a soldier. No circumstance had occurred 
since the commencement of the war, which occasioned more 






UNDER THE BRITISH. 99 

; lamentation in this city than the melancholy fate of this young 
and promising officer, who was universally esteemed for his 

1 amiable disposition and other valuable qualifications ; and the 
sympathy, which he had excited in the American army was per- 
haps unexampled, under any similar circumstances. His re- 
mains were removed from his grave at Tappan, in 1821, 
by order of James Buchanan Esq. his Britannic majes- 
ty's consul in this city, and sent to his native country, where 
they were interred with that solemnity, which was due to his 
worth. 

General Washington in a private letter (October 13) in 
taking notice of the whole of this business, thus expresses him- 
self " In no instance since the commencement of the war has 
the interposition of Providence appeared more remarkably 
conspicuous than in the rescue of the post and garrison at 
West Point," &c. " Andre has met his fate with that forti- 
tude, which was to be expected from an accomplished man 
and a gallant officer ; but i am mistaken if Arnold is not un- 
dergoing at this time a mental hell." 

As a part of the stipulated reward of his treason, Arnold 
was made a British brigadier general in America, and great 
hopes were entertained by Sir Henry, that though he had failed 
in the main object, he might still be of great benefit to the 
royal cause. He was to be entrusted with a separate com- 
mand, consisting of loyalists and the discontented of all sorts> 
of whom it was expected, that he could raise a very conside- 
rable body ; but neither his address to the inhabitants of 
America, nor his proclamation to the continental army had 
any effect. Notwithstanding the discontents among the 
American troops, Arnold's example and endeavours produced 
the desertion of very few soldiers and not even of one officer. 
They had embarked in a glorious cause and would never de- 
sert it to enroll themselves under the banner of a traitor. 

On 21st December, Arnold sailed from Sandy Hook, with 
a body of troops under his command and arrived in the Ches- 
apeake, about the end of the month with 50 vessels. He land- 
ed with about 1500 men, 15 miles below Richmond, and on 
the 5th January 1781, marched to that town, where he de- 
stroyed the public stores and buildings, the rope walk and the 
rum and salt in possession of the merchants. He likewise 
committed sundry depredations in other parts of Virginia. 
About the beginning of June, Lord Cornwallis having no im* 
mediate occasion for his services, or perhaps disliking the con- 
tinuance of a connection with a man of bis infamous character, 
permitted him to return to this city. 



100 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

Here, however he was not suffered to remain in a state of 
inactivity. He was sent on an enterprise against New-Lon- 
don when* he effected his landing on 6th September 1731 
with a sufficient land and marine force. The garrison at 
Fort Griswold, was bravely defended by about 150 militia, 
who had hastily collected and were badly supplied with fire- 
arms. After an engagement of about 40 minutes, they were 
obliged to yield to a far superior force. On the enemy's enter- 
ing the fort, a severe slaughter took place, though all resist- 
ance had ceased. The British officer on taking possession, 
inquired, who commanded the fort ? " 1 did, Sir," said Col- 
onel Ledyard " but you do now" and on presenting his sword, 
was immediately run through his body. There were Jo kil- 
led, between 30 and 40 w 7 ounded and about 40 taken priso- 
ners, ivho were treated with the most savage barbarity. A 
great many houses and 84 stores together with several vessels 
were consumed by thr flames ; and this dreadful calamity was 
not the effect of acciden ; but design. The loss, which the 
Americans sustained on this occasion was great \ as there 
were large quantities of naval stores, European as well as 
East and West India goods and provision deposited in the 
stores. By su i h inglorious exploits, this wretched renegado 
endeavoured to gain the confidence of his new employers ; 
but wherever he went, he was held in universal abhorrence ; 
and such will always be the traitor's reward ; for though some 
may be much gratified at the success of a treasonable design, 
it is impossible, that they can ever entertain the least regard 
for the traitor. 

But whatever losses and privations the Americans had been 
exposed to in the Northern and middle States, the affairs of 
the British at length, began to decline in the Southern. The 
king's troops had been severely handled in North Carolina, 
and though General Greene had been twice defeated by the 
army under Cornwallis, the provincials quickly recovered 
their ground, repulsed the enemy in their turn, and daily in- 
creased in numbers and improved in discipline. No succours 
had arrived from Sir Henry Clinton, the commander in-chief. 
That General opposed by Washington and entirely at a loss 
to conjecture at what place, the allied armies would strike the 
first blow, was in daily apprehension, of an attack upon this 
city and unable to afford the least assistance to the army in 
Carolina. So fully was he confirmed in his fears, from His 
having intercepted some of Washington's letters, tl:at he 
withdrew a considerable part of the troops under the com- 
mand of Cornwallis as a reinforcement to his own garrison, 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 10J 

On the (3th July, the combined armies under Washington 
and Rochambeau had taken their station in the neighbour- 
hood of White Plains, where it was their determination, for 
some time, to lay siege to this city; but the intelligence, which 
had been received concerning the reduced state of Cornwallis's 
army, as well as information that Count de Grasse with a 
powerful fleet would forthwith take possession of the Chesa- 
peake, induced the American and French commanders to 
change the plan of their operations entirely. They accor- 
dingly wrote to De Grasse, on the 17th August, apprizing him 
of their determination to remove the whole of the French ar- 
my, and as large a detachmest of the American as Could be 
spared to the Chesapeake, there to meet with his Excellency. 
The appearance of an attack upon this city was, however, 
still continued, and to induce the firmest belief of its being in- 
tended, ovens were erected opposite to Staten Island, at the 
mouth of the Rariton for the use of the French forces. 

While this deception was playing off, and Sir Henry Clinton 
bewildered in this manner, the allied army* crossed the 
North river on the 24th and arrived at Philadelphia on the 
30th. When the allies were on their march, the royalists in 
this city were greatly pleased with reports printed in Riving- 
ton's Gazette, stating, that The Emperor of Germany had de- 
clared himself the ally of Great Britaifi, which threw the 
court of Versailles into much confusion, as in consequence of 
\ this great event, the French nation must withdraw all support 
from their new allies the rebels, and we are informed it has 
occasioned Mr. Washington and the count de Rochambeau to 
quit their menacing position, at White Plains. This as well 
as other fabrications equally absurd were propagated and by 
whatever means they got into circulation, had an evident ten- 
dency to disguise the movements of the allies. 

The combined army continued their march from the North- 
ward till they arrived at V<e head of Elk, from whence they 
were transported by vessels destined for the purpose to Wil- 
liamsburgh, where they were landed on the 25th of Septem- 
ber and preparations were made with all possible despatch for 
putting the army in a situation to move towards York Town 

* During the stay of the French army in Newport, as "well as while on 
their march from thence to Philadelphia and through other parts of the 
United States, their conduct was so uniformly correct as to gain the es- 
teem of all, with whom they were conversant and product <l comparisons, 
between them and the British, which were, by no means in favour of the 
latter. Wherever they went, they were welcome guests ; as they not 
only behaved with the strictest decorum ; but punctually paid for every 
thing they wanted with hard monev. 

12 



102 THE CITY OP NEW- YORK 

the head quarters of Lord Cornwallis. It was a fortunate cir- 
cumstance, that the greatest harmony subsisted between 
Washington and Rochambeau, as some of the difficulties at- 
tending their joint operations were thereby greatly lessened, 
and the former being destitude of the means of supplying his 
troops readily obtained a loan for that purpose from the latter. 

The utmost alacrity prevailing among the allied forces and 
the whole army exerting itself with unusual vigour, the lines 
were completed and opened at 600 yards distance from Corn- 
wallis^ works. The situation of his lordship and of the Brit- 
ish under his command soon became desperate The works 
which they had raised had fallen before the artillery of France 
and America ; their attempts to repel the besiegers, to stop 
their progress and even to break through the American lines 
had all proved ineffectual. Every day brought the allies 
nearer to their object and nothing at last remained for the 
besieg'ed, but to capitulate. Accordingly on iyth October 
1781, Cornwallis yielded to necessity and surrendered him- 
self and army as prisoners of war. The artillery, arms and 
accoutrements belonging to the British, together with their 
military chest and stores of every description were given up 
to the Am' ricans, as also 7000 men the flower of the royal 
army. Fifteen hundred seamen partook oi the fate of the 
garrison. The Guadaloupe frigate of 24 guns and a number 
of transports were surrendered to the conquerors. The land 
forces became prisoners to the United States ; but the seamen 
together with the ships were assigned to France. 

The following circumstance, as it placed the humanity of 
the American soldiers in a very consph uous point of view and 
reflected the greatest honour upon the memory of our late much 
lamented fellow citizen Gen. Alexander Hamilton, ought not 
to be omitted. On the night of the 14th October, it had been 
resolved, that two of the British redoubts, which greatly im- 
peded the progress of the combined army, should be stormed 
and with the view of exciting a spirit of emulation, the re- 
duction of the one was committed to the French and of the 
other to the Americans. The soldiers, when they started had 
been ordered to remember New-London, (seepage 100). The 
redoubts were taken in a few minutes ; but the humanity of 
the Americans, so overcame their resentment, that hey spared 
their enemies, the moment they had them in their power. Be- 
ing asked by some persons, when carrying them off as priso- 
ners, why they had not put them to death, agreably to orders, 
they nobly replied " We could not, when they begged, for 
their lives, on their knees." Colonel ("afterwards general 



UNDER THE BRITISH. IQo 

Hamilton/) who conducted the enterprise with great address 
and intrepidity, in his report to the Marquis de la Fayette 
mentioned to the honour of his detachment, " that incapable 
of imitating examples of barbarity and forgetting recent pro- 
vocations, they spared every man that cea eel to resist." 

The joy diffused through the United States, by the surren- 
der of the army under Lord Cornwallis was inconceivably 
great, as they had for years spread havoc and destruction 
through a vast extent of Virginia and parts adjacent ; while 
their number was so great as to enable them to go where they 
pleased and their rage for plunder disposed them to take 
whatever they deemed most valuable. But independent of 
the removal of this great evil, the Americans considered the 
brilliant achievement, which put the allies in possession of 
York Town, as determining the issue of the contest ; and, 
from that moment, they looked forward to the reward of til 
their toils and a full compensation for all their sufferings. 
No sooner had congress received official information of this 
great event, than amongst other modes of evincing their grat- 
itude, they on the 24th October determined to go in full and 
solemn procession to the Dutch Lutheran church (then the 
largest in Philadelphia) and to give thanks to Almighty God 
for the success of their general ann the forces under his com- 
mand ; and they issued a proclamation recommending that 
the 13th of December be observed as a day of thanksgiving- 
and prayer on account of the signal -interposition of Divine 
Providence, which they had experienced. 

Nor were the people of America mistaken in the expecta- 
tions which they had formed respecting the result of this victo- 
ry. No sooner had the news of the capture of Lord Cornwal- 
lis reached the mother country, than the ministers were struck 
with dismay and those who had heretofore been averse to the 
war were greatly f mboldened in their opposition r We accor- 
dingly find, that on the 27th February 1782 it was resolved by 
the House of Commons "Ti at an address be pr< sented to his 
majesty, that he will be pleased to give directions to his minis- 
ters not to pursue any longer the impracticable object of re- 
ducing his majesty's revolted colonies, by force, to their alle- 
giance, by a war on the continent of America and to assure his 
majesty, that his faithful commons will most cheerfully concur 
with him in such measures as may be found necessary to ac- 
celerate the blessings of returning peace" This motion had 
been introduced by General Conway the uniform and sincere 
friend of the Americans and such was the general joy occa- 
sioned by its being carried, that apprehensions were enter- 



104 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

tained by the Secretaries of State that riots and tumults might 
ensue in the evening, in consequence of which they requested 
the lord Mayor to adopt such measures as might be necessary 
for securing the public peace. The address was presented 
to his majesty by the whole house, who on the 4th March 
were honoured by a conciliatory answer, for which he re- 
ceived an unanimous vote of thanks. The following resolu- 
tion was then passed without a division viz. M That this house 
will consider as enemies to his majesty all those, who shall en- 
deavour to frustrate his majesty's paternal care for the ease 
and happiness of his people, by advising, or by any means at- 
tempting the further prosecution of offensive Avar on the con- 
tinent of North America, for the purpose of reducing the col- 
onies to obedience by force. " On the same day, Sir Guy 
Carleton was appointed commander-in-chief in America. 
These resolutions and the great applause, with which they 
were received by the public, abundantly shewed, that a com- 
plete revolution in the ministry must take place, an event 
however, which was, by no means agreeable to the court. 

On the 2d of August 1782, Sir Guy Carleton and Admiral 
Digby gent a letter to General Washington, wherein they said 
■** We are acquainted by authority, that negociations for a gen- 
eral peace have already commenced at Paris and that Mr. 
Greenville is invested with full powers to treat with all the 
parties at war and is now at Paris in the execution of this com- 
mission," &c. They add " We are farther acquainted, that 
transports have been prepared in England, for conveying all 
the American prisoners to this country to be exchanged here ; 
and we are directed to urge, by every consideration of human- 
ity the most speedy exchange. 77 A part of this news was 
soon confirmed by the arrival of two cartel ships at Marble- 
head with 583 American prisoners and by the 21st August a 
third arrived with 1 16 more. 

It may easily be conceived, that this intelligence was highly 
gratifying to every real friend of his country ; but it was no 
sooner known to the Loyalists than a scene of terror and 
dismay prevailed through this city, which it is impossible to 
describe. To persons of that description, the arrival of death 
warrants could scarcely have afforded more serious cause of 
alarm. Those in the army tore their lappels from their 
coats, stamped them under their feet and exclaimed, that they 
were ruined for ever. Others cried out, that after sacrificing 
every thing to prove their loyalty, they were now left to shift 
for themselves, having lost the friendship of both their king 
and country. On the 7th August, it was earnestly recom- 



UNDER THE BRITISH. 1G5 

mended in Rivington's gazette, that the loyalists not only in 
this city ; but in every other place, should suspend their opin- 
ion on the present important occasion and c-.ntinue firm in 
their professions of loyalty and zeal for the union of the em- 
pire and wait the issue in patience. It was observed, that by 
such conduct, .they would preserve a claim on national grati- 
tude and protection, which it would be madness to forfeit ; 
since by giving way to impatience, they would only lessen 
themselves in the opinion of their enemies, without a shadow 
of advantage. 

On the 30th November 1782 a provisional treaty of peace 
was signed at Paris, between Richard Oswald, Esq. com- 
missioner on the part of his Britannic majesty, and John Ad- 
ams, Benjamin Franklin, John Jay and Henry Lawrence 
Esqs. commissioners on that of the United States, by the first 
article of which, his Britannic majesty acknowledged the for- 
mer thirteen American colonies to be free, sovereign and in- 
dependent states. It was agreed, however, that the said trea- 
ty should not be finally ratified by the contracting parties 
until terms of peace should be agreed upon, between Great 
Britain and France. 

On the 24th March 1783, Congress received a letter of Feb- 
ruary 5th from the marquis la Fayette, announc ng a gener.il 
peace, and a copy of orders given by Co nt d'Estaing for the 
purpose of putting a stop to all hostilities by sea ; whereupon 
they directed the marine agent to recall immediately all armed 
vessels cruising under commissions from the United States 
of America. 

At 12 o'clock, on the 19th April, the day which complet- 
ed the eighth year of war, the cessation of hostilities between 
the United States and Great Britain was proclaimed in the 
American army by General Washington. On the 26th May, 
Congress resolved, that General Washington should grant 
furloughs to the non commissioned officers and soldiers, who 
had enlisted for the war, together with a proportionable num- 
ber of commissioned officers of different grades and that the 
men thus furloughed should be allowed to take their arms 
with them. This resolution excited astonishment and cha- 
grin in the generals and officers, who commanded regiments 
and corps in the cantonment on the banks of the Hudson. 
They addressed their commander on the 5th June ; solicited 
his further aid on their behalf and entreated, that no officer or 
soldier should be obliged to receive a furlough, until Congress 
could be apprized of the wretched situation into which the 
army must be inevitably plunged by accepting furloughs till 



' 06 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

they should be certain of receiving a compensation for their 
services. Washington, by the exercise of that prudence for 
which he has been so justly celebrated, contrived to mitigate 
their fears and to allay that spirit of discontent, which if not 
suppressed might have been productive of the most serious 
consequences. 

About the beginning of August, Sir Guy had received his 
final orders for the evacuation of this city ; and on the 17th 
informed Congress that he should lose no time in fulfilling 
his majesty's commands ; but that he could assign no precise 
period. The insolence and abuse which the loyalists, when 
at the height of their power, had exercised towards their help- 
less brethren, who had espoused the cause of their country 
and their excessive cruelty to those, whom the fortune of war 
had placed amongst them as prisoners, stared them fully in 
the face and made them tremble at the approach of that day, 
which they had reason to fear would be to them a day of 
dreadful retribution. From these circumstances, Sir Guy 
Carleton seemed to be bound in honour not to give up the 
city till he had fully provided the' means of carrying off all 
those, who were desirous of quitting the country. 

At last, the 25th November 1783 was the day agreed upon 
for the evacuation of New-York. To prevent those disorders, 
which might otherwise have occurred on such an occasion, 
the American troops under the command of General Knox ; 
marched from Harlaem to Bowery lane, early in the morning. 
There they remained till about one o'clock, when the British 
forces left the posts in the Bowery and the Americans marched 
on and took possession of the city. As soon as this was 
affected, General Knox, with a number of citizens on horse- 
back rode to the Bowery, to receive their Excellencies Gene- 
ral Washington and Governor George Clinton, wh© with their 
suites, made their public entry into the city on horseback, fol- 
lowed by the lieutenant governor and senators, four abreast; 
General Knox and the officers of the army eight abreast, 
citizens on horseback eight abreast ; ; the speaker of the 
assembly, &c. and citizens on foot four abreast The go- 
vernor gave a public dinner to the commander-in-chief and 
other general officers at Frances's tavern then one of the most 
respectable in the city. It was situate in Wall at the corner 
of Nassau-street directly opposite the Old City Hall, on the 
scite of which the custom house now stands. In the evening ; 
magnificent fire-works far exceeding any thing of the kind, 
which had ever been in the United States, were exhibited in 
the Boling Green. No accident occurred, during the whol<: 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 10/ 

day and evening, which had the least tendency to mar the 
general festivity. 

In this city the anniversary of this auspicious day has been 
regularly celebrated ever since by military parades and other 
demonstrations of joy. Indeed it well deserves to be com- 
memorated not only here but in every other part of the 
United States ; as it was not till that very day that this land 
of freedom could be said to be completely free from the pre- 
sence of its hostile invaders. 



CHAPTER X. 

From the evacuation of the city by the British till the first 
meeting of Congress, under the New Constitution 4th 
March 1789. 

At the time, when the Americans took possession of this 
city, a circumstance, in itself ludicrous, though somewhat per- 
plexing, occurred on the battery. The British, on their de- 
parture, had left the royal standard flying as usual at the head 
of the flagstaff, and as they were desirous to avoid the mor- 
tification of seeing the American flag raised in its place, they 
had cut away the lanyards and greased the flagstaff so ss to 
render it, as they thought, impossible to take it down. The 
American troops had arrived on the battery, and the British 
standard still waved triumphant. There appeared to be no al- 
ternative, except to cut it down and erect another ; but this 
would be the work of some time. In this dilemma, an honest 
tar volunteered his services, which were readily accepted ; 
though no great hopes were entertained with respect to his 
success. With a small rope in his teeth, however, to which 
the American flag was affixed, he contrived to reach the top 
of the pole, cut down the British standard and in a few min- 
utes substituted the star spangled banner of the United States, 
which waved majestically in its stead. On his descent, he 
was greeted with the loudest acclamations by the admiring 
multitude ; but it was deemed proper to give him a more sub- 
stantial reward for his exploit than mere applause. A cole 
lection for his benefit, was taken up to which the greater part 
of the spectators from the commander-in-chief to the plainest 
citizen cheerfully contributed. The intrepid sailor had done 
an act, which had been deemed impracticable and which was 
highly gratifying to the public, and it is very probable that 



lOS THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

lie never performed a service, for which he received so ample 
a compensation. 

On 4th December, a very interesting scene took place in 
this city. At noon the principal officers of the army conven- 
ed at Frances's tavern. to take an affectionate leave of their 
much-loved commander-in-chief. General Washington ha- 
ving called for a glass of wine, thus addressed them, " With 
an heart full of love and gratitude I now take leave of you/ 
I most devoutly wish, that your latter days may be as pros- 
perous and happy, as your former have been glorious and 
honourable.' 7 Having drunk, he said " I cannot come to 
each of you to takt my leave ; but shall be obliged to you, if 
each of you will come and take me by the hand." General 
Knox, being nearest turned to him with tears rolling down 
his cheeks. Washington grasped his hand and then kissed 
him. He did the same to every succeeding officer and also 
to some other gentlemen, who were present. The pas ions of 
human nature were never more tenderly depicted than on this 
interesting occasion. The whole company were in tears. 
AVhen Washington left the apartment and passed through the 
corps of light infantry about 2 o'clock on his way to Whitehall, 
the others followed, in a solemn, mute and mournful proces- 
sion, till he embarked in his barge for Powles Hook. As 
soon as he had got on board, he turned towards his friends, 
took off his hat and with it waved a silent adieu. The}' paid 
him the same affectionate compliment, and as soon as the 
barge had pushed off, they returned from Whitehall in the 
same manner as they had gone. 

Before I proceed further in my " Brief History of the city," 
a short contrast between its state, at the time it was evacuated 
by the British and the state, in which it now (February 1 826) 
appears, may b^ interesting to many of my readers. I shall 
therefore, lay before them some remarks on the subject. 

In the year 17S"6 a census was taken agreeably to an act o! 
the legislature, by which the population of th^ city amounted 
to 23,619 ; but it is impossible to ascertain the precise num- 
ber, at the time of the evacuation, it is not improbable that 
after the departure of the royal fleet and army with the de- 
pendents and the loyalists, the number of residents in the city 
might be 20,619 and this number is fixed on, from the suppo- 
sition, that from that period to the beginning of the year 1786, 
the gain in our population was 3,000 a supposition which is 
far from being extravagant, particularly, if it be recollected, 
that many of our most respectable citizens, who during the 
war were under the necessity of living in exile, hastened to 



UNDE1L THE AMERICAN'S. 109 

their respective homes. The number according to the census 
of 1825 amounted to 1 66,086. Hence it appears, that 
our city, at present, contains somewhat more than eight 
times as many inhabitants, as it did in the year 1783. Thus 
its population has encreased in that unexampled ratio in 
the short space of 42 years. This statement might be 
considered as mere fiction, if it were not supported by the 
most convincing and irrefragable proofs viz. the census, which 
was taken by order of government soon after the evacuation, 
and that which was made by the same authority towards the 
close of last year. 

If the number of our inhabitants was small at the first 
of these dates, the thick settled part of the city was likewise 
confined within very narrow limits. On the Hudson river, 
the corner of Greenwich and Murray-streets might be deem- 
ed its boundary towards the North, as beyond the last of 
these streets, there were only to be found a very few strag- 
gling huts and even between Murray-street and what is now- 
called Tre Washington Market, there were only some 
scattering houses, while in the lower parts of the city, there 
was little to be seen but heaps of ruins. Even in what is now 
deemed the most elegant part of the city, by far the greatest 
part of the buildings were composed of wood and covered 
with shingles, bricks and stone being but very little used. 
Washington and West-streets were not in existence and the 
project of making new grounds by encroachments on our ri- 
vers had been scarcely thought of. In a secluded spot, in 
what is now- called Reed-street" near Broadway, was a burying 
ground for people of colour, in the neighbourhood of which, 
there was scarcely to be found a single ho se ; and in the rear 
of our City Hospital, there stood a handsome frame building, 
which had a garden and large orchard attached to it, and in 
the fields and meadows, which extended far and wide from 
thence towards the North river might be seen grazing for 
several summers immediately after the close of the revolution- 
ary war, some hundreds of horses and cows belonging to the 
inhabitants. Hills and dales, trees, shrubs, bushes, &c. were 
to be seen in every direction and perhaps it would now be diffi- 
cult to find a retreat within six miles of the city, which ex- 
hibits a more rural appearance than one could have then en- 
joyed in the rear of the hospital. That the orchard, which 
[ have mentioned was in a retired situation must be ob- 
vious from the following occurrence. In the year 1786 or 
.1787, a duel, in which one of the parlies was mortally wound- 
ed, was fought on that verv spot, and as from some circurn* 

* K 



HO THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

stances, this affair was, for a time, the subject of general con- 
versation, it must be still in the recollection of many of our 
aged inhabitants ; but my reason for introducing it, is merely 
to shew, that it must have taken place at some distance from 
the thick settled part of the city ; as duellists never wish to 
perform their exploits, except in places remote from wit- 
nesses. 

At that time, there was a large pond between Pearl and 
Anthony and Elm and Cross-streets, in which several persons 
were drowned. In its vicinity, it was usual for persons to 
go a gunning, where their prospect of success was as great, 
as if they were now to go out into the island to the distance 
of five or six miles from the City Hall. About the year 
1806, the Common Council directed it to be filled up and 
the neighbouring grounds to be brought to a proper level. The 
places, where these and other low g'ounds, as well as high 
hills existed, are now as if they had never been. Indeed 
the precise spots, on which they were formerly to be seen can 
scarcely be recollected, by our oldest inhabitants. 

To these observations, which abundantly shew the narrow 
limits, in which the settled part of the city was then confined, 
it may be added, that even that part was far from being 
eompactly built. Many vacant lots were to be met with not 
pnly in every ward, but even in every street ; and these were, 
in general sold at prices which bear scarcely any proportion 
to those, for which they could be purchased at the present 
time. Indeed I run no hazard in asserting, that for several 
years after the revolutionary war, what is now called a square 
or block, might have been purchased any where above Grand- 
street for a much less sum than would now be required for a 
single lot. 

At the evacuation, very few streets were paved, and the 
workmanship of these few was performed in such a manner 
as would now be deemed very awkward ; one gutter running 
through the centre, which was the lowest part of the street, 
and the elevation on both sides being towards the houses, 
Of banks and insurance offices, there was not one in the 
city, whereas we have now 17 of the former and of the latter 
upwards* of 40. At the commencement of the revolutionary 
war, there were 19 places of public worship ; but at its 
close, there were only 9 appropriated for that - purpose. 
Trinity and the old Lutheran church having been consumed by 
the great fire, 21st November, 1776, and the others as well as 
the college, used as barracks, jails, hospitals and riding schools. 
Of churches, we have now upwards of 100, of which, as well as 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. Ill 

of our monied institutions, &c. particular notice will be taken 
hereafter under appropriate heads. Since that time, the rate 
of provisions and all the necessaries of life as well as the in- 
come of our inhabitants have greatly increased, as may be seen 
under the article Public Markets. Arts and sciences ; reli- 
gious, charitable, and literary institutions; trade, commerce and 
manufactures were then scarcely thought of 5 but in all these, 
we have attained a degree of celebrity in less than half a cen- 
tury, which could never have been expected by our most san- 
guine admirers and which, if equalled, has never been surpas- 
sed in either ancient or modern times. ^ 

But it is now proper that I should return from my digres- 
sion. The British had scarcely left our city, when order 
seemed to arise out of confusion. The executive, legislature 
and judiciary instead of exercising their respective functions 
over a part of the state had now jurisdiction over the whole, and 
the council of appointment, amongst their first acts, appointed 
James Duane a gentleman of respectable talents, great pru- 
dence and moderation to the important office of mayor. Un- 
der his wise and discreet administration and the truly dignified 
conduct of his Excellency, George Clinton, who was our 
first governor after the declaration of independence^ and, at 
that tune held the same office, a spirit of conciliation was more 
speedily restored between those who had, during the war, en- 
tertained the most deadly hatred against each other, than could 
have been possibly expected ; and so much harmony exist- 
ed amongst us towards the end of the year 1784, that all ani- 
mosity seemed to have ceased and political dissentions to be 
buried in oblivion. 

Those of our churches, which had been appropriated to se- 
cular purposes, were restored to that sacred use, for which 
they had been at first erected ; and our college, which had 
been suspended in April 1776, was in 1784 completely re-es- 
tablished. Education, which had been almost totally neglect- 
ed during the preceeding seven years, met with that atten- 
tion which its importance deserved. Classical schools were 
forthwith established by competent teachers in which young 
gentlemen were prepared for entrance into college, and as 
many seminaries as were necessary for the instruction of 
children were soon established on as good a footing, as un- 
der existing circumstances could have been reasonably ex- 
pected. 

In consequence of a mutiny having taken place amongst 
some soldiers at Philadelphia, who were clamorous for their 
pay ? Congress deemed it proper to move their residence 



tl2 THE CITY OF NEW-YOEK 

from that city to Princeton, 26th June 1783, from whence they 
went to Annapolis, Maryland, in November following ; but 
they soon after, took up their abode in this metropolis where 
they continued till the year 1790. 

That the temporary residence of Congress amongst us for 
about six years had a considerable tendency to rouse that 
spirit of enterprise, which had so long been dormant but 
which, during these years, began so eminently to display 
itself, cannot be doubted. At all events, about that time, an 
activity in business of every kind, which had heretofore been 
unknown in this city, was universally apparent, and though 
from causes, which will be immediately noticed, the success 
of our inhabitants was not equal to the greatness of their exer- 
tions, their industry and perseverance enabled them to sur- 
mount great difficulties, and was ultimately productive of 
the most salutary consequences to themselves as well as to the 
community at l.-rge. 

It is now necessary to mention the cause, which so greatly 
retarded our progress in trade, commerce and manufactures* 
The American States, for they could not well be called 
United, had been kept together, during the war, from a com* 
mon sense of danger, by that feeble instrument known by the 
name of the Articles of Confederation ; which, when its 
inefficacy had been fully tested by experience, was justly pro- 
nounced by our most intelligent statesmen to be no better than 
a rope of sand. By this instrument, they had entered into a 
perpetual union with each other for their mutual defence, in 
which it was also stipulated that their laws and decisions should 
be obligatory on each of the thirteen states. Each state* 
however, was to be governed by its own legislature, with 
the enactments of which, congress had no right to interfere. 

It was not difficult to perceive, that this mode of govern- 
ment had not sufficient energy within itself to produce a vigo- 
rous administration of public affairs. Congress had no au- 
thority over individuals and over the states only as politi- 
cal bodies ; nor had it any power to enforce even them to a 
compliance with its injuctions, and in case of any quarrel, it 
could not prevent them from making war upon each other. 
Difficulties occurred and distresses were multiplied on every 
side. The army, though disbanded, had received only four 
months pay ; the debts contracted by congress as well as by 
many of the individual states, had not been discharged, and 
government possessing no revenue could give no value to its 
paper currency. Taxes were imposed by some of the State 
legislatures; but such was the pressure of the tiraes ? that they 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 113 

could not be collected and the very attempt occasioned gene- 
ral discontent. And though it had been fondly expected, that 
after the termination of the war, commerce would revive, it 
was still embarrassed and languid. 

The helpless situation, in which our national government 
was then placed, cannot be better expressed, than by the fol- 
lowing quotation from An address to the people of the State 
of New- York, on the subject of the proposed federal consti- 
tution written by our venerable fellow citizen John Jay, who, 
at that time, held the important office of minister of foreign af- 
fairs u By the confederation, as it now stands,' 7 says this ju- 
dicious writer, " the direction of general and national affairs 
is submitted to a single body of men, viz. the congress. They 
may make war ; but are not empowered to raise men or mo- 
ney to carry it on. They may make peace ; but without pow- 
er to see the terms of it observed. They may form alliances, 
but without ability to comply with the stipulations on their 
part. They may enter into treaties of commerce; but with- 
out power to enforce them at home or abroad. They may 
borrow money ; but without having the means of re-payment. 
They may partly regulate commerce; but without authority 
to execute their ordinances. They may appoint ministers and 
other officers of trust ; but without power to try or punish 
them for misdemeanours. They may resolve; but cannot 
execute either with despatch or with secresy. In short, they 
may consult, and deliberate and recommend and make requi- 
sitions ; and they who please, may regard them. From this 
new and wonderful system of government, it has come to 
pass, that almost every national object of every kind is, at 
this day, unprovided tor ; and other nations, taking the ad- 
vantage of its imbecility, are daily multiplying commercial 
restraints upon us." Thus, in the opinion of this eminent 
statesman, our national government was at, that time a mere 
nullity. Congress had nominal, but no real power or au- 
thority. 

In the midst of these distresses and difficulties perhaps un- 
paralleled in the history of nations, it was proposed by James 
.Madison,* in the legislature of Virginia, of which he was then 
a member in the year 1735, that a general convention should 
be held, in order to frame a better system of government or so 
to alter the existing constitution as to remedy the evils, which 
pressed upon the community. In consequence of this recom- 

* It is scarcely necessayy to mention, that tliis illustrious personage 
filled with dignity the exalted station of President of the United States 
for 8 vear« ; viz. from the year 1809 to 1817. 

K 2 



114 



THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 



mendation delegates from several of the states assembled a) 
Annapolis, Maryland, in 178G ; but they adjourned without 
doing any thing effectual with respect to the important object 
for which they had convened. Difficulties, however, continued 
to increase and another convention assembled at Philadelphia 
in May 1787* when delegates attended from all the states, with 
the exception of Rhode Island, and after choosing General 
Washington as their president, they proceeded to the arduous 
duty which they had been appointed to perform. 

After a se sion of 4 month;, this honourable body, having 
agreed on our present excellent constitution, adjourned 17th 
September 1787* It was afterwards submitted to the consid- 
eration of conventions appointed by the people of each of the 
13 original states, by whom it was ratified in the order and 
at the periods annexed jo the names of the said states respect- 
ively, as will appear in the 1st column. In the 2d, the 11 
new states which have been, since that time, admitted into the 
union, with the dates of their respective admissions, will be 
found arranged in the same manner. 

A.DOPTION OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION BY THE DIF- 
FERENT STATES. 



Original States. 
Delaware, Dec. 7, 1787 

Pennsylvania, Dec. 12, 1787 
New-Jersey, Dec. 19, 1787 
Georgia, Jan. 2, 1788 

Connecticut, Jan. 9. 1788 
Massachusetts Feb. 6, 1788 
Maryland, April 28, 1788 
South Carolina, May 23, 1788 
N. Hampshire, June 21, 1788 
Virginia, June 26, 1788 

-New- York, July 26, 1788 
N.Carolina, Nov. 21, 1789 
Rhode Island, May 29, 1790 



Neio 
Vermont, 
Kentucky, 
Tennessee, 
Ohio, 
Louisiana, 
Indiana, 
Mississippi, 
Illinois, 
Alabama, 
Maine, 
Missouri, 



States. 

March 4, 

June 1, 

June 1, 

Feb. 19, 

Aprils, 

Dec. 11, 

Dec. 10, 

Dec. 3, 

Dec. 14, 

March 15, 

March 2, 



1791 
1792 
1796 
1803 
181? 
1816 
1817 
1318 
1819 
1820 
1821 



But before I proceed to mention some of the other causes, 
which tended to the establishment of the federal constitution 
on its present permanent basis and of course to the elevation 
Of our metropolis to its unrivalled state of prosperity, it is ne- 
cessary, that I should give a brief account of a very serious riot, 
which occurred about this time, and occasioned considerable 
alarnxamongst the inhabitants. To the honour of the Ameri- 



VNDEB THE AMERICANS. 115 

can character, tumultuous assemblies and open violations of 
the laws are little known in the United States. When any 
thing of the kind occurs, it is therefore, proper that it should 
be recorded in a publication of this kind. The outrage to 
which I allude is that which is commonly known by the name 
of the Doctor's Mob. 

During the winter of 1787 and 1788, some medical students 
and other persons had dug up from several of the cemeteries 
in this city a number of dead bodies for dissection. This prac- 
tice had been conducted in so indecent a manner as to raise 
a considerable alarm among the people. The interments 
not only amongst strangers and the poor Africans had been 
disturbed, but the bodies of some respectable persons had 
been, likewise, removed. These circumstances most sensibly 
agitated the feelings of the friends of the deceased and wrought 
up the passions of the populace to a ferment. 

On Sunday the 13th April, a number of boys, who were at 
play in the rear of the City Hospital, perceived a human limb, 
which was imprudently hung out of a window to dry. They 
immediately informed a number of persons in the neighbour- 
hood. The news spread like lightning and was readily be- 
lieved by listening crowds. Some medical students had upon 
this occasion acted with so great impropriety as to render it 
impossible for any apology to have been offered for their con- 
duct ; but a number of aggravating circumstances was cer- 
tainly added to their fault, which had little, if any foundation 
in fact. From the reports, however, which were thus propa- 
gated, an incensed multitude speedily assembled, rushed into 
the hospital, and in their fury destroyed a number of anatomi- 
cal preparations, some of which had been imported from 
abroad. Some fresh subjects were also found, which were in- 
terred the same evening. Several of the young physicians 
with difficulty escaped the rage of the people, and would un- 
doubtedly have been exposed to great personal danger, had not 
the mayor, the sheriff, and some ol our most distinguished citi- 
zens interfered in their behalf and lodged them in jail. The 
friends of good order were hopeful that the affair would have 
ended here ; but they were unfortunately mistaken. 

On the morning of the day following, a great number of 
people assembled for the purpose, as they avowed, of search- 
ing the houses of suspected physicians. The governor, the 
mayor, the chancellor, with General Hamilton and many 
others of our most influential characters, finding that the pas- 
sions of the people were highly irritated, went among them, 
and endeavoured to dissuade them from committing unneces* 



116 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

sary depredations. They addressed them in the most pathet- 
ic manner and promised them every satisfaction which the 
laws of the country could afford. This had considerable effect 
upon many, who after examining Columbia college and the 
houses of sundry physicians, in which they expected to find 
dead bodies, repaired peaceably to their respective habitations. 
But in the afternoon, the affair a-sumed a more threatening as- 
pect. A mob, apparently desirous of riot and confusion, and 
who paid little regard to the promises of the magiss rates or to 
the sovereignty of the laws, went to the jail and demanded that 
the physicians who were there imprisoned should be delivered 
to them. Had this demand been complied with, the poor doc- 
tors had reason to expect little mercy. 

The magistrates, having found that the mild language of per- 
suasion was of no avail, were under the necessity of calling 
out the militia to suppress the riot, maintain the dignity of 
government and protect the jail. A small party of armed men 
inarched thither about three o'clock, whom the mob permitted 
to pass through them, with no other insult than that of a few 
volleys of stones, dirt, &c. Another party of only about twelve 
men, made a similar attempt about an hour afterwards ; but 
the mob having surrounded them, seized and destroyed their 
arms. This gave the populace fresh courage ; they endea- 
voured to force the jail; but were repulsed by a handful of 
men, who bravely sustained their attack for several hours. 
The mob then destroyed the windows of that building and tore 
down part of the fences. At dusk, a party of armed citizens 
marched to its relief; and as they came near it, the mob with 
loud huzzas, began to pelt them with showers of stones, brick- 
bats, &c. in consequence of which, several of the militia were 
greatly hurt and obliged to fire in their own defence. Five 
persons were killed and seven or eight severely wounded. The 
mob became alarmed and in a short time dispersed. A party 
of the militia were, for a few days, employed in guarding the 
jail. The students, to whose imprudence, this threatening 
commotion was owing, retired to the country for a short time 
and by the firm, yet moderate conduct of our magistracy, the 
city was almost immediately restored to its wontedtranquillity. 

I now proceed to state a few of those circumstances which 
had a more immediate tendency to promote the adoption of 
the proposed new form of government and its subsequent or- 
ganization in this city. From this state Robert Yates. 
John Lansing and Alexander Hamilton had been ap- 
pointed as delegates to attend the general convention at Phila- 
delphia ; but that body had not been long in session, till the 



UNDER TtfE AMERICANS. 11? 

first two of these gentlemen deemed it their duty to withdraw. 
In a letter, which they addressed to governor Clinton, they 
stated, that their " powers were explicit and confined to the 
sole and express purpose of revising the articles of confedera- 
tion and reporting such alterations and provisions therein as 
should render the federal constitution adequate to the exigen- 
cies of government, and the preservation of the union." They 
added, that " exclusive of their objections originating from the 
want of power, they entertained an opinion that a general go- 
vernment, however guarded by declarations of rights or cau- 
tionary provisions must unavoidably in a short time, be pro- 
ductive of the destruction of the civil liberty of such citizens 
as should be effectually coerced by it." Whilst these gentle- 
men in consequence of their visionary fears deemed it consist- 
ent with propriety to desert iheir post, the patriotic and dis~ 
cerning Hamilton, sensible that the very existence of our 
national government depended upon a much more energetic 
system than that by which the states were then scarcely kept to- 
together; firmly remained at his, being the only delegate from 
this great state, and by his incessant labour as well as irresisti- 
ble eloquence had very probably as great agency as any of that 
illustrious assembly in bringing about their agreement to re- 
commend to the different states that constitution, under which 
we have for so many years, enjoyed unexam<>led prosperity 
and happiness. 

In this city, the great majority of the inhabitants were in 
favour of the proposed form of government, but throughout 
most parts of the state, the case was different, many of our 
most influential characters being greatly opposed to it. To 
enlighten the minds of our citizens on this important subject 
and to allay their ill- founded apprehensions, a number of es- 
says entitled the Federalist were written by those invaluable 
citizens, Albxander Hamilton and John Jay of this city 
and James Madison of Virginia. These were first publish- 
ed in the New- York Gazette, and afterwards in the American 
Museum at Philadelphia, and in most of the respectable journals 
in the United States. They were, likewise, published in two 
duodecimo volumes and are still deservedly held in high 
estimation, as they contain the most complete refutation of 
the many objections, which had been raised against the con- 
stitution of any, that was ever issued from the press. It is 
now universally admitted, that these essays greatly contributed 
to accelerate that happy event, which rescued our country from 
impending anarchy, and gave us a form of government which 
has ever since rendered us respected abroad, and free, sove* 
reign and independent at home. 



118 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

In this state, however, our convention did not assemble till 
the constitution had been ratified by ten of the other states. 
This body met at Poughkeepsie on June 19th, when governor 
Clinton was elected president. Jt was composed of 65 mem- 
bers, 40* of whom were at the time of its meeting, considered as 
decidedly opposed to the new constitution. The force of Mr. 
Hamilton's eloquence, however, who was justly stiled "The 
American Cicero" had an irresistible effect upon the minds of 
such of his opponents as deemed themselves at liberty to de- 
cide for themselves. Hence several, who had come with a 
fixed determination to vote against the constitution, honestly 
declared, that as their objections had vanished, in consequence 
of the superiority of his arguments, they wisely determined, 
that the best interests of their country required, that they 
should change sides. On July 26th, the important question 
was determined, when 30 voted for the adoption and 25 
against it. Ten members were absent. The patriotic presi- 
dent governor Clinton, who had been one of the opponents, 
on the adjournment of the convention, like a true republican, 
earnestly recommended to the gentlemen of the minority to 
endeavour to promote amongst their constituents a steadfast 
attachment to that form of government, which had now been 
duly confirmed by the will of the majority. 

A grand celebration, which took place in this city on the 
8th July immediately preceding this event, as it evidently 
shewed the wishes of the mercantile part of the community, 
had no doubt a considerable influence on the convention in 
bringing them to this happy conclusion. My readers will easi- 
ly perceive, that 1 allude to the Federal Procession. Pro- 
cessions had taken place in the chief cities of several of the 
states, in honour of the new constitution, and the New-Yorkers 
were determined, that their fete should equal, if not surpass, 
any which had preceded it. Neither pains nor expenses were 
spared to have every thing arranged with the greatest taste 
and splendour and the exertions used on the occasion were 
crowned with complete success. To witness this grand and 
highly interesting spectacle thousands of our fellow-citizens 
assembled from various parts of the country and after be- 
holding the transactions of the day, returned to their re- 
spective homes highly gratified. It is worthy of remark, that 
though the whole city might be said to have been in motion 
no accident occurred to interrupt the festivities of the day, and 
that when night came on, our streets were as tranquil, as if no- 
thing extraordinary had happened. 

As the arrangements of the Federal procession of 8th July 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 119 

1788 served, in some measure, as a guide for those of the one 
which we witnessed on the 4th November last, in honour of 
the completion of our Grand Canal, I shall give no account of 
the former ; but leave my readers to form their opinion of it. 
from what they will find concerning the latter at the end of 
the next chapter, i shall therefore only observe, that it was 
splendid and numerously attended beyond what could have 
been reasonably expected, at a time when our population could 
have only been about one sixth part of that to which it amounts 
at present. And here it ought, likewise, to be mentioned thai 
in the Federal procession there was one part of the celebration 
which could not have been easily followed in that which took 
place in honour of the Grand Canal. The whole company 
partook of a plentiful dinner in a spacious field, on Bayard's 
farm, in and about where Bayard street now is. At the 
head, there was a table in a semicircular form, somewhat ele- 
vated, at which were seated the members of congress, their 
principal officers, the foreign ambassadors and other persons 
of distinction, and from this semicircular table as a centre, there 
verged towards the circumference 13 other tables like the 
radii of a circle, at which the vast multitude, who composed 
the procession supposed to be between 4 and 5 thousand en- 
joyed the feast. Peace and plenty were every where predom- 
inant, and delight beamed in every countenance. So nume- 
rous a company had never sat down together to an entertain- 
ment in this city and from its great increase of population 
since that period, it is scarcely possible, that such an assem- 
blage will ever be able to find a field sufficiently spacious for 
their accommodation on this island within a suitable distance 
from the City Hall. 

On the 13th September, the Old Congress, after a pream- 
ble, stating that the constitution reported for the people of the 
United States by the convention in Philadelphia, 17th of 
September, 1787, had been transmitted to the several le- 
gislatures, and ultimately ratified in the manner therein 
declared to be sufficient for the establishment of the same, 
therefore, Resolved, " That the first Wednesday in March 
next be the time, and the present seat of congress (New York) 
[ be the place, for commencing proceedings under the said 
constitution.' 7 

Tb's resolution was no sooner published, than arrange- 
ments were immediately made for enlarging the City Hall 
in such a manner as to afford proper accommodations for the 
meetings of the Senate and House of Representatives, and as 
our inhabitants were anxious, that this city should be fixed on 



120 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

as the permanent seat of government, no exertions were omii- 
ted to accelerate the work and to render the halls and offices 
intended for the use of the national legislature suitable for the 
reception of that augu-t body. On the 4th March, 1789, the 
doegates from the eleven states, which tad then ratified the 
constitution, assembled .n this city, in the elegant apartments 
I have just mentioned. On couming the votes for President, 
George Washington was unanimously elected to that dig- 
nified office, and John Adams was chosen Vice Presi- 
dent. The election thus made of the two highest officers 
of the general government, occasioned the greatest joy, not 
only here, but in every other part of the United States, and 
abundantly shewed, that these distinguished citizens were the 
choice of the people. 

On the 30th April, 1789, George Washington was in- 
augurated President op the United States of America. 
The ceremony was performed in the open gallery, in front of 
the Old City Hall, in the presence of several thousand specta- 
tors. The oatli was administered by Chancellor Livingston. 
Several circumstances combined to render the scene pecu- 
liarly solemn. The presence of that inestimable man, who 
was universally esteemed as the deliverer of his country ; the 
impressions of gratitude for his many and important services - y 
the devout fervency with which he took the oath, and the 
loud acclamations of the admiring multitude, which followed 
at the close of the ceremony, when the chancellor pro- 
nounced, in a very feeling manner, " Long live George 
Washington, President of the United States ;" these 
circumstances, together with that of his being chosen to the 
most dignified office in the United States, by the unanimous 
voice of his countrymen, all conspired to place this among the 
most interesting scenes which had ever been exhibited in this 
or in any other part of the world. 



CHAPTER XI. 

F ram the organization of the New Constitution 4th March 
1789, to the procession in honour of the completion of the 
Grand Canal, 4th November, 1825. 

The new government being thus happily organized, con- 
gress proceeded more rapidly in the discharge of the arduous 
duties assigned them than could have been reasonably ex- 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 12 J 

pected. Though bt>set with difficulties on every side, sucli 
were the indefatigable exertions of those enligtened patriots, 
that from absolute confusion, complete order was speedily es- 
tablished. A system of finance was formed, the plan of which 
was projected by Alexander Hamilton, the first secretary 
of the treasury. The part assigned him was peculiarly diffi- 
cult ; but he performed it to admiration, and the almost im- 
mediate recovery of our nation from a state verging on bank- 
ruptcy and fixing its credit on a solid foundation, was, in a 
; great measure, owing to the depth of his penetration. The 
| State, the Treasury, and the War Departments, as well as the 
| judiciary, were established and the wheels of government 
fully set in motion before the close of the first session. In fine, 
public business was conducted with so great prudence, that 
many of those who had from the most correct motives, been 
opposed to the new constitution, became its admirers. 

Although the inhabitants of this city had made every exer- 
tion in their power to accommodate the national legislature in 
a manner suited to their dignity, yet in the beginning of the 
year 1790, they passed an act for establishing a permanent 
seat of government, in consequence of which the next session 
was to be held in Philadelphia, and at the end of ten years 
congress was to meet at ConogocJieque, the spot on which 
the city Washington has been since erected. Every ef- 
fort was used by our citizens to induce congress to remain 
here ; and many predicted, that their removal would greatly 
impede our growing prosperity. Our neighbours of Philadel- 
phia, likewise, expected that their situation would be mate 
rially changed in consequence of that event. u Some of the 
blessings, anticipated in the removal of congress to this place,'' 
! says one of their writers, " are already beginning to take effect. 
Rents have risen, and I fear will continue to rise in a shameful 
proportion." After stating that rents, in the outskirts of the 
city, had been lately increased upwards of fifty per cent, 
he adds, " Our markets, it is expected, will also be dearer 
\ than heretofore. Whether the advantages we shall enjoy in 
the removal of congress will be equivalent to those disadvan- 
tages to the inhabitants, time alone will determine. I am 
J convinced, however, if things go on in this manner, a great 
majority of our citizens will have reason to wish them well 
settled at Conogocheque, long before our ten years are ex- 
pired." What advantages or disadvantages occurred to our 
neighbours from their being honoured with the seat of govern- 
ment for ten years, I shall not pretend to say; but of this 1 
am certain, that the loss occasioned by their departure from 

h 



122 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

us was not perceived by our citizens at large : nor was it, per- 
haps, felt by any except a few of those who kept genteel board- 
ing houses. 

On the 15th of July, 1790, our city was visited by 28 of the 
kings, chiefs, and warriors of the Creek nation of Indians, 
headed by the celebrated Mr. Alexander M'Gillivray, a man 
whose letters plainly evinced the strength of his understand- 
ing, and whose courage, integrity, and other amiable qualities, 
greatly endeared him to those, who had the pleasure of his 
acquaintance. His father, who was a Scotchman, gave him 
as good an education as could then be obtained in the South- 
ern states, and his mother was an Indian of the Creek nation. 
From these circumstances, he was elevated by his countrymen 
to be their chief magistrate, and amongst them his influence 
was unbounded. The appearance of so many aborigines, as 
well as the importance of their mission, naturally attracted 
general attention. During their stay here, which was about a 
month, they lodged at a tavern then quite in the country, 
called the Indian King, on the banks of the Hudson, near the 
spot where the state prison now stands. In their intercourse 
with our inhabitants, they conducted themselves in an orderly 
manner, and though there were many singularities in their 
behaviour, there was'little of that ferocity, which is generally 
met with amongst those whom we call savages. 

Violent disputes had, for some years, existed between the 
Creeks and the inhabitants of Georgia concerning their boun- 
daries, and in consequence of mutual encroachments, the re- 
sentment of both parties had been so greatly excited as to 
require the wisdom of the general government to prevent 
their resorting to open hostilities. To effect a reconciliation, 
therefore, between the contending parties, was an object 
which the President had greatly at heart; and to bring it 
about no mode presented itself so likely to ensure success 
as that of prevailing on a number of the principal men of the 
Creek nation, with M'Gillivray at their head, to come to this 
city. The United States had determined, tliat in the settle*- 
rnent of their affairs, they should be treated with justice and 
humanity ; and it was hoped, that in their journey to and 
from their nation to the seat of government, they would be 
able to form some idea of the extent of our power, and from 
thence draw the important conclusion, that we would never 
allow them to encroach upon our rights or annoy our citizens 
with impunity. 

The Treaty of peace and friendship, between the United 
States and the Creeks having been concluded, by Gbnerat, 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 123 

Knox, secretary at war, and commissioner on the part of the 
United States, and Col. M'Gillivray in behalf of the Creeks, 
the vice president of the United States, both houses of con- 
gress, the heads of department, the governor of the state, and 
a great concourse of citizens, assembled in the chamber of the 
house of representatives on the morning- of the 13th August 
1790, to witness its ratification. At 12 o'clock, the president 
and his suite, Colonel M'Gillivray, the kings, chiefs, and war- 
riors of the Creek nation having likewise arrived, the treaty 
was read in a slow and deliberate manner, after which the 
president addressed the chiefs, in a short speech, in wh*ch he 
expressed his conviction, that the terms of the treaty were just 
and equal, and explained the mutual duties, which it enjoined 
on the contracting parties. This address was communicated 
to the chiefs, sentence by sentence, by Mr. Cornell, sworn 
interpreter, a Scotchman, who had resided amongst them 
for many years, and to all and e\ery part of the said 
treaty, when thus explained to them, the Creeks gave an 
audible assent. This important instrument was then signed 
by the president and the representatives of the Creek nation. 
A string of beads, as a token of perpetual peace, and a paper 
of tobacco to be smoked in remembrance of it were pre- 
sented to Mr. M'Gillivray, who on receiving the tokens 
made a shnrf hut pprtinpnt reply. This being ended, all the 
Creeks shook hands with the president, and the whole of this 
interesting and solemn ceremony, which many of our citizens 
; well remember, was concluded with a song of peace. 

Almost immediately after the ratification of the treaty, the 
Creeks set out for the land of their nativity ; but the peace 
was not so firmly established between us and those sons of the 
forest, as our government had fondly imagined. It is much 
to be lamented, that as the Georgians felt power and forgot 
right, they paid little attention to the treaty. They then 
wished, as they have ever since, to get unconditional posses- 
sion of the remaining territory of these inoffensive people, and 
from what we have lately seen, there is reason to fear, that 
without any regard to right or ivrong, they will never desist 
till they shall accomplish their nefarious purpose. 

We have no account of the yellow fever having made its 
appearance in this city from the year 1742 till late in the 
autumn of 1791, when it broke out in the vicinity of Burling 
slip ; and though from the advanced period of the season, at 
which it commenced, it was confined within narrow limits, 
and soon ehecked by the frost, it did not subside till it cut 
off several respectable citizens, amongst whom was General 



124 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

Malcolm, a native of Scotland, who had greatly distinguished 
himself during the revolutionary war. We are told, that all our 
physicians were, at that time, unacquainted w;th the nature 
of the disease except the late respectable Dr. James Tillary, 
who had seen it in the West Indies, and the venerable Drs. 
John Carleton and John Bard, who remembered its ravages 
in this city in 1742. Since that time it has visited us so often, 
that we have few physicians who are not well acquainted with 
its appearance, character, and best mode of cure. 

On February 5th 1793, the national assembly of France 
declared war against Great Britain and Holland. In the fol- 
lowing autumn, a bloody battle was fought off Sandy Hook, 
between the British frigate Boston and the French frigate 
L'Ambuscade, the former of which, having lost her captain 3 
went to Halifax, and the latter came up to this city, where on 
the day following two French ships ©f the line and some other 
vessels of war, likewise arrived The officers and crews of 
this squadron were highly caressed by our fellow citizens. 
Although our immortal Washington had wisely issued his 
proclamation enjoining on the part of the United States a 
strict neutrality, the partiality of the people, in general, was 
strong in favour of France, and had it not been for the prudent 
and energetic measures of the executive to correct the torrent 
of popular opinion, we should have been plunged in that 
dreadful war, which, for so many years, deluged Europe in 
blood. 

In the autumn of this year, Philadelphia was dreadfully 
afflicted by yellow fever, 4041 persons having died in the 
city, from the commencement to the termination of the 
disease. Our citizens being greatly alarmed, a proclamation 
was issued, prohibiting the fugitives from that city to land here, 
till after an absence from it of a certain number of days; but 
the prohibition could not be enforced. Many of the Philadel*- 
phians eluded the vigilance of the guards, and several of them 
sickened and died amongst us ; but our city remained fully as 
healthy as usual, during the whole season. In the year 1795, 
however, the disease appeared amongst us about the first of 
August, and seven hundred and thirty-two persons ditd before 
it subsided. 

But in the year 1798, the yellow fever paid us a more 
dreadful visit than it is probable that it had ever done before ; 
and though we have been repeatedly afflicted with it since that 
period, viz: in the years 1799, 1800, 1803, 1805, and in 
1822, it in none of those years was productive of so dreadful 
effects. From the latter end of July, when it first made its 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 125 

appearance to the beginning of November, when it ceased, the 
deaths amounted to 2086, to which may be added two or 
three hundred of those who had fled — an awful number, par- 
ticularly if we consider that more than one third of the in- 
habitants, who at that time did not exceed 55,000, had left 
the city. Never was the humanity of a people more con- 
spicuous than that of the Americans on this dreadful calamity. 
From most states in the Union, liberal contributions of money, 
provisions, and fuel, were poured in for the relief of the indi- 
gent. A similar spirit of philanthropy had been displayed 
towards the Philadelphians in the autumn of 1793. 

On 13th December 178£, the illustrious General Wash- 
ington quit this mortal existence at Mount Vernon, after a 
few days illness. This event occasioned great lamentation 
throughout every part of the United States, and no where 
were the manifestations of sorrow more apparent than in this 
city. On the 31st December, agreeably to previous arrange- 
ments, the whole of the military belonging to the city, with 
many from the neighbouring counties, the masonic lodges, the 
most respectable societies, foreigners of distinction, the Ho- 
nourable the Common Council, and an immense concourse of 
citizens, joined in Procession, from the park, where it was 
formed, through most of the principal streets to St. Paul's 
Church. The military marched in reversed order, and with 
reversed arms to solemn music, while the bells tolled, and 
minute guns were fired from the battery. The whole of the 
business was conducted with the utmost solemnity, and in 
such a manner as to leave a deep impression on the minds oi 
the citizens of the irreparable loss which they had sustained in 
the death of their Common father. The procession went on in 
awful stillness, and there were few indeed, in whose counte- 
nances the gloom of sadness was not depicted. The Reverend 
the Clergy walked in full dress, with white scarfs, and twenty- 
four beautiful girls, in white robes, scarfs, and turbans, strewed 
laurels as they went along. The Funeral Urn, with its deco- 
rations, was supported by eight soldiers (with others attending 
for relief) upon a Bier, in form of a palanquin, six feet by 
four. This elegant assemblage of emblems consisted of a 
superb funeral urn three feet in height, a spread eagle with his 
wings drooping, and several others equally appropriate, which 
my limits do not permit me to mention. 

As soon as the procession had been seated in the church, 
music suited to the occasion was performed, a prayer was 
offered up to the Most High by the late Right Reverend 
Bishop Provost, and an oration on the character and bistorv 

L2 



126 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

of the deceased, was delivered by the late Honourable Gou- 
verneur Morris. After the solemn services of the temple 
had concluded, the bier was deposited in the cemetery and the 
last military honours performed over it. 

On the 6th January 1800, Congress recommended that the 
22d February next (being Washington's birth day) should 
be observed as a day of mourning throughout the United States. 
The inhabitants of this city, notwithstanding the aforesaid 
splendid procession, paid due attention to the recommenda- 
tion. In the forenoon an eulogium on the deceased was de- 
livered by the late Rev. Dr William Linn, in the Middle 
Dutch church, and an oration suitable to the occasion in 
the Brick church, in the afternnon, by the Rev. Dr. John M. 
Mason. 

It is strange, that though the New-Yorkers then did and 
still do profess the greatest veneration for the character of 
Washington, and though they have repeatedly talked upon 
the subject, they have as yet erected no monument to his 
memory. It is well, however, that by the eminent services 
which he has rendered to his country, and the uniform cor- 
rectness of his conduct, In every station, whether as a general, 
a statesman, or a private citizen, he has reared a monument 
for himself, which will be far more durable than any which 
can be formed of brass or stone, or even of adamant. 

In July 1804, our citizens were again called to mourn the 
loss of a most eminent statesman, whose residence had been 
constantly amongst us from his juvenile years till the day that 
he closed his mortal career, except when honourably and 
usefully employed in the service of his country, either in the 
cabinet or in the field, whose loss was the more lamented 
as we well knew his many excellent qualities in private as 
well as public life, and as he left in this city his amiable wife 
a widow, and seven promising children fatherless. My read- 
ers will perceive, that I allude to the death of General Hamil- 
ton, who fell in the 48th year of his age, and in the midst of 
his usefulness, not in the course of nature, nor in the field of 
battle ; but a victim to the barbarous practice of duelling, by 
the hands of Aaron Burr, who sent the challenge, and which 
the deceased, from a mistaken sense of honour, unfortunately 
accepted ; though on moral and religious principles he had 
long been opposed to this savage mode of settling differences. 
On the morning of July 11th the parties met on a secluded 
spot near the river Hudson, about half a mile above Weehawk 
ferry, N. J. On the first fire from Burr, the general received 
his mortal wound ; but it appeared that agreeably to an inten- 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 127 

lion which he had expressed to his second, a few days previous 
to the meeting, as well as from the contents of a written paper 
found amongst some others soon after his death, the general 
took no aim at his antagonist ; but discharged his pistol in a 
different direction. Immediately after his fall, he was brought 
over to this city, where he expired on the afternoon of the day 
following at the house of his relation John B. Church, Esq. 
in Robinson-street, now Park place. From the statements 
published by the Rev. Dr. John M. Mason and the late Right 
Rev. Bishop Moore, both of whom, at his request, visited him 
in his last illness, and from the last of whom he received the ho- 
ly sacrament, it appears, that notwithstanding the severity of 
his sufferings, he still retained the full use of his powerful mind. 
To these gentlemen, as well as to the few others who were ad- 
mitted to see him, he expressed his full belief in the truth of the 
Christian religion, and his hopes of entering into everlasting 
bliss in and through the merits of our blessed Redeemer. 

The melancholy tidings of the General's decease was soon 
known throughout the city, and few persons were to be seen^ 
whose countenances did not express the deep sorrow, which 
they felt at heart. The citizens of New-York, at least for a 
time, forgot that party rancour which had so long separated real 
friends. But why should I confine my observations to this 
city. Party rage was overwhelmed in a flood of lamentation, 
through every part of the United States, and men of opposite 
political sentiments united in unfeigned eulogiums on the splen- 
did talents, the pure patriotism, the spotless integrity and the 
noble disinterested nature of the much lamented Hamilton. 

The citizens having determined, that there should be a 
solemn procession at his funeral, which was to take place 
on the 14th instant, the common council resolved, that 
they would attend in a body, that the bells should be 
tolled, &c. On the day appointed, the procession composed 
of the Militia, the Cincinnati, the Reverend the Clergy of all 
denominations, the Common Council, foreigners of distinc- 
tion, the gentlemen of the bar, students of law and of the 
college, incorporated bodies, societies, &c. followed by a great 
number of citizens, moved from Park place, at 11 o'clock, 
and after proceeding in a slow manner through the principal 
streets, arrived at Trinity Church about 2 o'clock. The Hon. 
Gouverneur Morris, with the general's four sons, mounted a 
stage, which had been erected in the portico of the church, and 
after being seated for a short time, he arose and delivered 
a short, eloquent and truly pathetic eulogium on his de- 
reased friend, in which he carefully avoided any expression. 



128 THE CITY OF NEW-YOBK 

which could have the least tendency to irritate the minds of 
his auditors. When he came to the close, he pointed to the 
general's four sons, and represented the situation in which his 
family was placed in consequence of his sudden death, in so 
feeling a manner, that few of those who heard him remained 
unmoved. Most of them shed tears. The orator having con- 
cluded, the funeral service was then read, after which the body 
was interred with military honours. His brethren of the Cin- 
cinnati caused an elegant monument to be erected over his 
grave. 

The St. Andrew's Society of this city, of which he was a 
member, his father having been born in Scotland, to natives of 
which country, and their descendants, membership is, in this 
institution, exclusively confined, caused a very handsome 
monument to be erected over the spot on which he fell. This 
remained till within these few years, when it was demolished. 
Hither, since the death of Hamilton,* rash individuals had 
resorted, at different times, to settle their disputes in what they 
deemed an honourable way : but the few peaceable persons 
who reside in that vicinity, greatly disliked such visitors. 
They shuddered at the idea of the soil of Weehawk being 
again stained with human blood, of which they were appre- 
hensive that this monument might prove the innocent cause. 
It was, therefore, privately destroyed. Without such an 
apology, their conduct would be viewed in as bad a light as 
that of the Goths and Vandals of antiquity. 

The ensuingwinter was the most severe of any which we had 
experienced since that of 1780. Several persons crossed on the 
ice from this city to the Jersey shore, and although they returned 
in safety, it was certainly a hazardous undertaking. Fuel, dur- 
ing the winter, was scarce and dear The price of a load of 
oak-wood was from 5 to $6. 

In the year 1803 our city was visited by the yellow fever. 
It commenced about 26th July, and continued to prevail, in a 
greater or less degree, till the beginning of November, during 

* From the favourable manner in which I have represented the de- 
ceased, some unthinking persons may accuse me of being actuated by 
party spirit; but, if 1 know my own heart, 1 am under no such influence. 
I have written exactly as I think, and those who were in the city abotu 
the time of his funeral, will well remember, that all men, of whatever 
political opinions, with the exception of a few violent partizans of Col. 
JJurr, expressed the very same sentiments as I do at present. As he 
was a man, he was not exempt from faults ; but they were few and 
of these the rash act which terminated his mortal career, was by fav 
.the worst. 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 129 

which time 670 persons fell victims to its fury. About the 
middle of June in 1804, the same disease broke out in the 
village of Brooklyn, between which and this city there is only 
the East river, about three quarters of a mile in width. About 
forty persons died of it from its commencement to the occur- 
rence of frost. Although several of the inhabitants of that 
village had come over to this city and died in the houses of 
their friends, our board of health knew of no instance in which 
it proved contagious to those who attended them. We re- 
mained exempt from pestilence during that season. 

In 1805 the same scourge made its appearance in this city. 
It began about the middle of July. During the early period 
of this epidemic, nearly all the cases took place on the Eastern 
side of the city, in Front, Water, and Pearl streets, and prin- 
cipally below Burling slip. They afterwards became more 
generally diffused. The alarm was great, and many of our 
inhabitants fled soon after its commencement, in consequence 
of which the progress of the disease was greatly checked. 
Between the 18th July and 1st November, 280 persons fell 
victims to this destroyer. I well remember, that in this year, 
the panic was much greater than it had been in 1803. The 
many who sought safety by flight, started at an early pe- 
riod ; thus the city was soon greatly thinned, and the ma- 
lignant spark, which had been kindled, being, in a great 
measure, deprived of the necessary fuel, could not occasion so 
great a conflagration. Immediately after the return of our 
fugitives, the Common Council directed a jury list to be made 
out, agreeably to " An act of (he legislature for regulating 
trials of issues and for returning able and sufficient juries., 
passed 31st March, 1801. They also caused an enumeration 
of those who had left the city, during the prevalence of the ma- 
lignant fever, as also of the whole number of the inhabitants 
to be taken. 



130 



THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 



A Table showing the total number of inhabitants in each 
ward, also of those who fed in 1805. 



Wards. 


The number 
who fled. 


Total number 
of Whites. 


Total number of 
people of colour 


Whole num. 
ber. 


First, 

Second, 

Third, 

Fourth, 

Fifth, 

Sixth, 

Seventh, 

Eighth, 

Ninth, 


6,112 
5,961 
4,152 
4,320 
3,452 
4,224 
2,775 


7,470 

7,077 
6,880 
8,866 

11,313 
8,367 

15,551 
4,554 
1,984 


509 
473 
4<U 
368 
1,027 
594 

117 
218 
211 


7,679 
7,550 
7,371 
9,234 

12,340 
8,961 

15,668 
4,772 
2,195 


36,996 


71,762 


4008 


75,770 



Thus out of 75,770, the population of the whole city, in the 
year 1805, 26,996, that is, abou; one third of the whole, fled ; 
but if I confine my observations to the first four wards, in 
which the number of inhabitants was then 32,834, no less than 
20,545, that is two thirds, wisely took their departure, and 
thus not only ensured their own safety, but also greatly promo- 
ted that of those who remained. From an inspection of the 
aforesaid Table, it may be seen, that in the flight, which then 
so generally took place, the inhabitants of the 8th and 9th 
wards had no share. They well knew, that from the purity of 
the air, they were as safe from the danger of the pestilence, 
which prevailed in the other wards, by following their business 
at home, as if they had resided in the Western wilderness. 

On June 10th 1 812, war was declared by the United States 
against Great Britain. The act passed the Senate, yeas 19, 
nay 13, and in the House of Representatives by a majority of 
30. On the 3d November following, Governor Tompkins, in 
his address to the legislature of this state, made the following 
pertinent observations respecting the aforesaid proceeding 
of Congress. "Notwithstanding," says he, "differences of 
opinion may exist upon a variety of local and other subjects, 
yet in the propriety of respecting and yielding our exertions 
to support the national will, constitutionally expressed, and tG 
preserve the rights, character, and honour of the American 
nation unimpaired, we must all heartily join." In this city 
there was considerable doubt in the minds of many respecting 
the necessity of our having resorted to hostilities against Great 
Britain; for though it was unanimously admitted ? that the 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 131 

injuries which had been heaped upon us by that nation were 
highly provoking, it was thought that the declaration of war 
was impolitic and premature, as we were then but little pre- 
pared for entering in a contest with an adversary possessed 
of so many means of distressing us; that our trade and com- 
merce would be, in a great measure annihilated ; that the ex- 
penditure of blood and treasure would be great beyond calcula- 
tion, while the result of all our privations and sacrifices, was 
extremely doubtful. 

But though such had been the objections of many of our 
good citizens, to the honour of the New Yorkers be it said, 
that when they found that war had been declared by our consti- 
tuted authorities in the manner prescribed by the constitution, 
opposition, in general, ceased, and not a few of our wealthy 
inhabitants, who had been averse to hostile measures, liberally 
contributed to the support of their country. Sometime after- 
wards when fortifications began to be erected for the defence 
of the city, all classes united in gratuitously lending their 
helping hand. Masons, carpenters, cartmen, shoemakers, and 
in fine men of all trades and avocations, as well as the differ- 
ent incorporations and societies, turned out, in distinct bodies, 
to labour on the projected works, from day to day, as they 
could find room ; for so many different bodies would fre- 
quently offer their services at one time, that they were often 
obliged to wait their turn before they could be gratified. 
Never did the inhabitants of any city display more zeal in 
making preparations for its defence than those of New York 
did upon this occasion. 

Within four months after the declaration of war, there were 
fitted out and sent to sea from this port, twenty-six privateers, 
carrying 212 guns, and 2239 men. Indeed the ocean swarm- 
ed with American privaieers; and the British commerce, in 
every quarter of the globe, severely felt the effects of our 
valour and enterprise. In the short period of six months, 
319 British vessels, three of them frigates of the first class, 
others ships of war of a smaller size, and the residue valuable 
merchantmen, were either destroyed at sea or brought into 
port by our public and private vessels ; and it was estimated 
that the damage done to the British commerce exceeded 
,$12,000,000. On the 4th December 1812, the frigate United 
States, commanded by Commodore Decatur, with her prize 
the British frigate Macedonian, which had been taken on the 
25th October, arrived at New London ; from whence they 
soon after came round to this port, where, it need scarcely be 
mentioned, that they were greeted with a most hearty welcome* 



132 THE CITT OP NEW-YORK 

In consequence of the gloom which had overspread the mind:? 
of our citizens since the news of the disgraceful surrender to 
the British of the garrison of Detroit, with the American army, 
consisting of 3000 men, by their commander General Hull,*' 
on the l6th August, they wanted something to exhilarate their 
spirits, and nothing could have more effectually answered the 
purpose than the arrival of the victorious Decatur with his 
prize. The citizens complimented the Commodore and his 
officers to a splendid entertainment, where he had the pleasure 
of meeting with his brothers in victory, Commodore Hull 
and Captain Jones. On the day following, the corporation 
gave a dinner to the gallant crew, exceeding four hundred, in 
the same superbly decorated hall in which their officers had 
dined on the day preceding. From thence they marched in pro- 
cession to the theatre, at the proper hour, the band of the 
Macedonian playing their favourite tune, " Yankee Doodle." 
Their correct and decorous conduct during the whole day and 
evening, did them great honour, and convinced our citizens 
that they could maintain the same order in the midst of amuse- 
ment as they had done when conquering the enemy. 

On the 13th June 1813, a bloody engagement took place 
off Boston, between the British frigate the Shannon, and the 
American frigate the Chesapeake. The latter was taken, but 
not before her commander, Captain Lawrence, was mortally 
wounded, as well as Mr. Ludlow, his first lieutenant. On the 
arrival of the vessels at Halifax, they were buried with the 
highest naval and military honours. From thence their bodies 
were removed to Salem, Massachusetts, where, on August 
19th, they were interred with funeral honours; but as the 
friends and relations of the deceased were desirous that their 
remains should be deposited in this city, where the widow of 
Capt. Lawrence, and the families of both resided, they were 
brought here by land, and finally interred in the cemetery 
of Trinity church, with that respect wbich was due to their 
merit. 

The frigate President, with three or four vessels of inferior 
force, destined for the Ea^t Indies, had been detained in this 
harbour from the middle of December 1813; but were so 
olosely watched by a far superior force, that they could not 



* As soon as Hull was exchanged, a court martial was ordered for his 
trial, which commenced at Albany on the 3d January 1814. After a 
session of 80 days, he was found guilty of cowardice, and sentenced to 
be shot to death ; but in consequence of his revolutionary services and 
advanced age, he was recommended to mercy. The president approved 
the sentence, spared bis life, and ordered his name to be struck from 
the roll of the army. 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 133 

escape till January 13th 1814, when all the ships except the 
President got out to sea. On the day ensuing, Decatur fol- 
lowed, wnen in passing the bar, his ship grounded and received 
considerable damage. It would have been well if he had re- 
turned. After sailing about fifty miles along the South side 
of Long Island, he was proceeding on his course, when at 
day-break on the 15th, he discovered that he was chased by 
four large ships, from which he, in vain, attempted to escape. 
He defended his ship as long as was consistent with propriety, 
and after 25 of his brave crew had been killed, and 55 wound- 
ed, he was obliged to yield to so vast a superiority. 

On the llth February 18(5, the long wished for, but very 
unexpected news of peace, arrived in this city, and afforded 
the greatest satisfaction to men of all parties, to federalists and 
republicans, to the friends of the administration and its oppo- 
nents, who all united in celebrating the happy event. On the 
very evening on which the agreeable intelligence reached us, 
our city was partly illuminated, which was in a few days there- 
after followed by more extensive demonstrations of joy. The 
definitive treaty of peace was agreed upon by the commis- 
sioners at Ghent, December 24th 1824, ratified by the Prince 
Regent on the 27th following, arrived in this city on the llth, 
and at Washington on the 13th February, where it was ratified 
by the President and Senate, on the 17th following 

Tn the summer of 1822, we were visited by the yellow fever. 
The disease, in that season, made its appearance in a different 
quarter from that in which it had commenced its operations in 
former years. It had formerly always begun somewhere 
on the East river, but then it was first seen in Rector-street, 
towards the North river, a part of the city which had been 
heretofore deemed peculiarly healthy. And as its devasta- 
tions were chiefly confined to that vicinity it was called the 
"Infected district." 

Between ljth of June, when the disease commenced, to the 
2d of November, when it terminated, the number of deaths 
were 1286, of which, owing to the blessing of God, on the 
timeous and salutary measures adopted by the board of health 
to check its career, there were only 240 by yellow fever. 

I now come to an event which will long be remembered 
: with pleasure by the inhabitants of this metropolis. On Sun- 
day 15th August, General La Fayette, who had for some 
time been anxiously looked for, arrived at Staten Island, 
where he remained at the mansion of his excellency the late 
Daniel D. Tompkins, then vice president of the United 
States, till the day following, when he made his public en- 

M 



134 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

trance into this city. To this illustrious man, the United 
States are more indebted for that liberty and independence 
which they now enjoy, than to any individual now living. 
His gratuitous and highly important services as a Major 
General in our army, his unceasing exertions to procure aid 
from France, and his repeated and very liberal supplies of 
money for the use of our half naked and suffering soldiers, 
during the revolutionary war, were still fresh in the minds of 
our fellow citizens. Hence he was treated with a most cor-r 
dial welcome — a degree of rapture almost bordering on en* 
tkusiasm. He landed at Castle Garden amidst the acclama- 
tions of many thousands, the ringing of bells, and the firing 
of cannons. All the merchant and coasting vessels in our 
harbour hoisted their colours, and the ships of war, packets 
and numerous steam boats, were decorated with flags of 
different nations in the most elegant manner. In short, no 
demonstration of joy, which the ingenuity of our citizens could 
invent, was wanting to express the pleasure which was so ge- 
nerally felt on the arrival of this veteran hero, this distinguish- 
ed Guest of the Nation, at our metropolis. After tarrying 
a short time at Castle Garden, he was escorted to the City 
Hall, where he was received in form by the Common Council, 
and addressed in a very appropriate speech by the Hon. Wm. 
Paulding, junr then mayor, to which he made an affectionate 
and very suitable reply. From (hence he was conducted to the 
lodgings, previously provided for him, by the Common Coun- 
cil, at Mr. Bunker's splendid hotel in Broadway. During his 
short residence amongst us, he visited our navy yard and 
garrisons, our public institutions, theatres, &c. and was every 
where received with that gratitude, to which, from his eminent 
services, he was so justly entitled. He daily kept a levee, at 
certain hours, in the City Hall, where he was incessantly 
visited by crowds of citizens, with whom he conversed with 
great familiarity, and readily shook hands with every one, who 
came forward for that purpose. 

The time of his departure having arrived, he was escorted 
by a numerous detachment of artillery, infantry, and cavalry, 
to Kingsbridge, wheie they took an affectionate leave of their 
noble and amiable friend. Although, when he landed at this 
port, he was in the 6Sth year of his age, and walked lame in 
Consequence of his wound, he, in the space of thirteen months, 
visited most of the principal places in the United States, from 
North to South, and from East to West ; and so ardent was 
his desire to behold the vast improvements, which, since his 
fast visit, had taken place, in every part of onr. country, that 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 135 

it is highly probable he travelled with more despatch and 
made greater progress than had ever been done in the United 
States by any one, whether young or old. On the 13th of 
September, after taking an affectionate leave of the President, 
and heads of department, he proceeded to the frigate Brandy- 
wine, Commodore Morris, which had been fitted up for his 
accommodation, and in which he landed at Havre November 
following. 



CHAPTER XII. 

d short account of the rise, progress, and completion of the 
Great Canal, and of the grand celebration, which took 
place in this city on that auspicious occasion. 

The citizens of this state may be proud on reading the fol- 
lowing notice taken of this stupendous work, in Blackwood's 
Magazine, a journal by no means noted for partiality to this 
country " There does not exist, at this time, on the whole 
face of the earth, any district more flourishing, more improv- 
ing, more enterprising, than the state of New York. The 
great canal, which beggars to insignificance all similar under- 
takings in the old world, and which in point of extent is the 
largest line of continued labour in the world, after the wall 
of China, is of itself a sufficient proof and illustration of this 
fact." 

There is even at this period some doubt with respect to the 
person who first conceived the vast idea of uniting the waters 
of Lake Erie with those of the Atlantic ocean, by a Great 
Canal As the Hon. Gouverneur Morris had made a tour 
througii the western parts of this state in the summer of 1800, 
during which time he viewed lakes Ontario and Erie with 
*reat attention, and made himself well acquainted with the 
soil and situation of the different streams with which the 
■vestern country was watered, it is highly probable that he 
vas the first who conceived the practicability of carrying such 
it i project to a happy conclusion. He clearly foresaw the 
ncalculable benefits which would result to the state when such 

work should be finished. His expectations on this point 
vere undoubtedly sanguine. But it will readily be admitted, 
hat it is far more easy to form correct notions of a great and 
iseful project than to put them in execution. Hence though 
ie who devised the plan of our Great Canal merits commenda- 
ion, the man who by his unceasing exertions surmounted every 



136 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

difficulty thrown in the way, and got it carried into complete 
operation is evidently entitled to much more. 

I am far from wishing to detract from the merits of Mr. 
Morris ; but it may be asserted without fear of contradiction, 
that had it not been for the comprehensive genius and unre- 
mitted exertions of Dewitt Clinton, our present governor, 
the grand canal which has been lately finished, would have 
still remained in embryo. It was he who propose i, and who 
after overcoming the many difficulties which had been thrown 
in the way, had the principal agency in bringing to a happy 
termination this stupendous work. 

The danger and folly of party spirit was never more appa- 
rent than in the early opposition to the commencement of the 
canal which its enemies by way of derision, denominated 
Clinton's big ditch. So long as the great event of the under- 
taking appeared doubtful, they readily allowed that he was the 
sole adviser of the measure; and if from any cause whatever, 
the plan had not been completely executed, they would have 
blamed him without mercy as the principal cause of involving 
the state in a very enormous and useless expenditure. When 
they found, however, that the work would certainly be com- 
pleted in a less time than its friends had at first imagined, and 
that further opposition would be of no av il, they came forward 
to acknowle ge their error and to appropriate to themselves, if 
possible, the merit of prosecuting and bringing it to a happy 
conclusion. But in order that they might be able to effect 
their purpose, it was deemed necessary to remove their chief; 
commissioner. 

Mr. Clinton had been a leading member of the Canal board? 
for 14 years ; he had been ever at bis post an ^ indefatigably 
attentive to the object of his appointment, the great work 
was rapidly progressing and in a short time would have been 
finished. At this very juncture, towards the close of the session 
of 1824, they removed that gentleman from the Canal Board. 
Never had the proceedings of our legislature roused the aston- 
ishment and indignation of our citizens so much as this did.*—/ 
Meetings were immmediately called throughout the state, and 
the peopl in general did every thing in their power to remove 
from themselves the stain of ingratitude, A very numerous 
meeting was held in the parkin this city on the 19th May 1824, 
where after appointing William Few chairman and John 
Rathbone Junior, secretary, they unanimously passed eight 
resolutions, the fourth of which is in the following words : 
'•'Resolved, That we consider De Witt Clinton pre-eminently 
useful to the age, in which lie lives and that for 14 years of pubf 






UNDER THE AMERICANS. 137 

lie service in the prosecution of the great Northern and 
Western Canals, without salary or reward, he is richly entitled 
to the gratitude of the people of the state of New-York, to the 
gratitude of the nation at large, since they are national works, 
and to the gratitude of posterity, since they will benefit all 
future generations. " They represented his removal as an act 
degrading to the state, a violation of justice, an outrage on 
public opinion and a serious injury to the highest interests 
of the state and they declared that notwithstanding his 
removal, their confidence in his capacity and integrity and 
their respect for his public and private life was unimpaired. 
A committee of thirty was appointed to communicate the 
proceedings of this meeting to De Witt Clinton and to give 
them publicity throughout the state." 

Respecting the early difficulties, which were opposed to 
the commencement of the canal and the means by which they 
were obviated, Mr. Clinton thus happily expresses himself in 
his reply to the New- York Address " At the commencement of 
the year 1816, a few individuals held a consultation in the city 
of New- York, for the purpose of calling the public attention 
to the contemplated Western and Northern Canals. The dif- 
ficulties to be surmounted were of the most formidable aspect. 
The state in consequence of her patriotic exertions during the 
war, was considerably embarrassed in her finances ; a current 
of hostility had set in against the project ; and the prelimina- 
ry measures however well intended, ably devised or faithfully 
executed, had unfortunately increased, instead of allaying pre- 
judice. And such was the weight of these and other consider- 
ations, that the plan was generally viewed as abandoned. — 
Experience evinces, that it is much easier to originate a mea- 
sure successfully, than it is to revive one, which has been al- 
ready unfavourably received. Nothwithstanding those ap- 
palling obstacles, which were duly considered, a public meet- 
ing was called, of which William Bayard \as chairman and 
John Pintard secretary; a memorial in favour of the ca- 
nal policy was read and approved and a correspondent spirit, 
which induced the legislature to pass a law authorizing surveys 
and examinations, took place in evey part of the state.' 

On April 17th 1816, '-An act was passed providing for the 
improvement of the internal navigation of the state and an ap- 
propriation of $20,000 was made to defray the expense of 
surveys &c. The report of the commissioners at the next ses- 
sion of the Legislature, respecting their proceedings presented 
such conclusive evidence, in favour of the proposed canals, that 
an act was passed, April 5, 1817; but not without the most 



138 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

decided opposition, providing funds for proceeding in the actual 
execution of the design, which was destined to connect the At- 
lantic Ocean with Lake Erie by a Grand Canal, which was 
to have a surface of forty feet in breadth, declined to eighteen 
feet at bottom and containing a depth of four feet of water, suf- 
ficient for conveying vessels of more than one hundred tons 
burthen. 

Celebration of the completion of the Grand Canal, 4th Nov. 

1825. 

The long expected day so glorious for the city and state 
with all its pomp and circumstances has passed and its inci- 
dents like the fragments of a splendid vision, are now floating in 
bright and glowing masses, through our imagination. But the 
pageant was too brilliant and the scenes too various for the 
memory to retain more than certain vague impressions, no 
less beautiful than indistinct. Those who saw the magnifi- 
cent scene, will, at once, admit that it cannot be painted in 
language, and those who had not that happiness must content 
themselves with the assurance, that our best endeavours to 
convey to them an adequate idea of its grandeur will fail. 

The grand fleet arrived in our waters from Albany about 
5 o'clock in the morning and came too near the StKte Prison. 
The roar of cannon and the merry peals of our numerous bells 
greeted the sun as he rose in a clou* Hess sky. In a few moments 
afterwards, signals were given by the flag ship, and the various 
flags, banners and other decorations were run up, as if at the 
command of a magician. The fleet consisted of the Chancel- 
lor Livingston, Captain Lockwood, under the special direction 
of Charles Rhind Esq. acting as admiral, assisted by Com- 
modore Wiswall, having in tow the elegant canal packet boat 
"The Seneca chief, of Buffalo," the Constitution, captain Bar- 
tholomew, having in tow the Rochester boat "Young Lion of 
the West" on board of which among other productions of the 
West, were two living wolves, a fawn, a fox, four racoons, and 
two eagles. Other boats regularly followed, the names of 
which my limits do not permit me to mention. All these vessels 
bavin? got in their proper places, the new and superb steam 
boat Washington, Captain E. S. Bunker came up, bearing the 
great banner of the corporation, representing in dark figures 
the arms of the city upon a snow white ground. This is a 
boat of large dimensions, beautiful model and superbty finish- 
ed throughout, uniting all the improvements in steam boat ar- 
chitecture. She was decorated in a more superb manner than 
can possibly be described. She ran along side of the Chan? 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 13Q 

cellor and a committee of the corporation with a committee of 
officers of the Governor's guard came on board to tender his 
Excellency their congratulations on his arrival in our waters 
from those of Lake Erie. In performing this duty, Alderman 
Cowdrev delivered the following address : — 

"Gentlemen, — Upon this auspicious occasion, when the 
Grand Lakes of North America are, by means of our canals, to 
be united with the Ocean and in consequence of this, the state of 
New York is to become more than ever, a connecting and im- 
portant member of the American confederacy, we are deputed 
by ihe corporation of the city of New York, in behalf of them- 
selves and their constituents, to welcome you to their shores and 
waters, to reciprocate your congratulations and to request your 
acceptance of their most cheerful hospitalities. The accom- 
plishment of this interesting object, to the commemoration of 
which we are indebted for your visit will in future ages, be 
amongst the most splendid efforts of genius. 

" How many months and years of profound study and ap- 
plication on the part of some of our wisest citizens were ex- 
pended before the mighty project was matured and all the 
springs of action necessary to bring it into perfection fully ar- 
ranged and systemized, it is impossible now to calculate or 
determine. What new calculations favourable to the growth 
and prosperity of this section of the empire are to take their 
rise from this magnificent work and shed their benign effects 
upon the present and future generations, it is equally impossi- 
ble to conjecture and can only be ascertained by the lapse of 
time. 

" But we may rest well satisfied, that as it is the product of 
the most comprehensive intellect, and of the most lofty pat- 
riotism, it is calculated to extend and multiply the advantages 
of external and international commerce and the essential inter- 
est of agriculture and the mechanic arts and more especially, 
as it is to render this chain of the union stronger and bright- 
er, so will its projectors and friends receive the blessings 
of their cotemporaries and of posterity, and their names be en- 
rolled by the faithful pen of history, as public benefactors. 

"We repeat to you our congratulations, gentlemen, that we are 
permitted to join you in celebrating the union of the Northern 
and Western frontiers with our Atlantic seaboard and we in- 
voke the great father of the waters and of the land, and who is 
the maker and lord of all things to smile upon our undertaking 
and upon all the concerns of our beloved country. ;; To which 
the Governor made the following reply : 

"The congratulatory address of the corooration of the city of 



140 THE CITY OF NEW-YORK 

New- York, on the completion of the Erie and Champlam 
canals has been received by the several persons and bodies, 
to which it has been [.resented with the most profound respect 
and with the most cordial reciprocation. In offering to you 
our felicitations on an occasion so honourable to the intelli- 
gence and patriotism of the people of this state, we can add 
but little to the forcible views, which you have taken of this 
consummation. 

In its auspicious influence on the interests of agriculture, 
manufactures and commerce ; on the duration of the union of 
the states ; on the elemental principles of social prosperity, it 
is a measure of the first importance and will be felt and recog- 
nized as such by all future times. The gratifications natural- 
ly associated with the celebration of this event are greatly en- 
hanced by its intimate connexion with the prosperity of the 
city of J\ew York. 

Standing near the confines of the ocean and now connected 
by navigable communications with the great lakes of the North 
and West, there will be no limits to your lucrative extensions 
of trade and commerce. The valley of the Mississippi will soon 
pour its treasures in this great emporium, through the chan- 
nels now formed and forming and wherever wealth is to be 
acquired or enterprise can be attempted, the power and capa- 
city of your city will be fe! f and its propitious influence on hu- 
man happiness be acknowledged. 

The munificence, which has distinguished the citizens of 
New-York, in liberal appropriations for education, charily and 
public accommodation evinces the wisdom, public spirit and 
energy of its constituted authorities and reflects honour upon 
our country, of which it forms a most important portion and 
every measure, which tends to enlarge the sphere of your use- 
ful operations and to increase your means of dispensing good, 
will we trust, always be hailed as of primary importance by the 
good people of this state. 

We entreat you to accept of our best acknowledgments 
for your kindness arid for your arrangements on an occasion, 
so worthy of the hospita!it} T and munificence of this great and 
opulent city and we most humbly implore the choicest visita- 
tions of the blessings of heaven on you and your constituents.' 7 

Not the least pleasing of this morning scene was the packet 
ship Hamlet, captain Candler prepared by the Marine and 
Nautical Societies, appearing at Sun rise in the North River, 
superbly dressed in the flags of various nations. She made a 
most splendid appearance, during the whole day. 

At half past 8 o'clock, the corporation with their guests 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 141 

assembled in the city Hall and proceeded to the steam boats, 
Washington, Fulton and Providence stationed at the foot of 
Whitehall street. At the same place was the Commerce 
Capt. Seymour with the elegant safety barge Lady Clinton. 
This barge with the barge Lady Van Ranselear had been 
set apart for the reception of ladies and their attendants. 
The Lady Clinton was decorated with a degree of elegance, 
which was equally delightful and surprising. From stem to 
stern, she was ornamented with evergreens, hung in festoons, 
and entwined with roses of different hues, and many other 
beautiful flowers. In one of the niches of the upper deck 
was the bust of Governor Clinton, with a wreath of laurel and 
roses. 

A few minutes after nine, the fleet from Albany as before 
mentioned led by the flag ship of the Admiral, followed 03" 
steam boats and other vessels came round from the North and 
proceeded up the East river, to the iSavy Yard, v^here salutes 
were fired and the sloop of war Cyanne was dressed in the col- 
ours of all nations. While the commander was signalizing the 
various vessels, and they were manoeuvering to take their sta- 
tions, the spectacle was beautiful beyond measure. Long be- 
fore this time, however, our city had been pouring forth her 
tens of thousands. Castle Garden, the battery and every ave- 
nue to the water was crowded beyond description. The ships 
and vessels in the harbour were filled even to their rigging and 
round tops ; and the movements in forming the order of the 
aquatic procession afforded a fine opportunity of observing the 
several vessels in every advantageous and imposing situation. 
Every thing being in readiness the fleet moved down the bay 
in theanost beautiful order. 

They proceeded to the United States schooner Dolphin., 
moored within Sandy Hook, where the ceremony of uniting the 
waters of Lake Erie and the Atlantic was performed. The 
boats were formed in a circle around the schooner and Gover- 
nor Clinton performed the ceremony by pouring a keg of the 
water of Lake Erie into the Atlantic, upon which he deliver- 
ed the following address : 

"The solemnity at this place on the first arrival of vessels 
from Lake Erie is intended to indicate and commemorate the 
navigable communication, which has been accomplished be- 
tween our Mediteranean seas and the Atlantic ocean in about 
eight years, to the extent of more than 425 miles by the wisdom, 
public spirit and energy of the people of the state of New- 
York ; and may the God of the Heavens and the Earth smile 
mo§t propitiously on this work and render it subservient to h 



142 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK 

best interest of the human race." Dr. Mitchill then poured 
the contents of several vials containing the waters of the Elbe 
and many other rivers into the ocean and delivered a long ad- 
dress which will appear in the Appendix. 

Salutes were then fired from the Revenue Cutter, the pilot 
boats and several of the steam boats, and the nautical pro- 
cession returned to the city about 4 o'clock, when the corpo- 
ration and the several parties, that accompanied them, landed. 
At this time, the city societies were on the Battery, where 
they had just arrived after a Jong march through our principal 
streets nearly in the following order. 

1st. Tailor's Society with banners, &c. 

2d. Bakers with white hats, appropriate banners, &c. 

3d. Coopers, a car btaring a stage, on which were men at 
work, making casks &c. the members having badges, &c. 

4th. Butchers preceded by a trumpeter — then a car deco- 
rated tastefully with green branches, on which was a steer; but- 
chers on horseback in white aprons, with checked s'eeves, bad- 
ges, &c. A. two decked car drawn by six horses decorated 
beautifully and followed by butchers mounted and dressed as 
the first. This society made a fine appearance, as there 
were upwards of 500 members present. 

5th. Tanners — a car drawn by 4 horses, on which were 
men at work. 

6th. Cwriers with badges and banners. 

7th. Skinners — a car drawn by 4 horses, with men at work. 

8th. Combrnakers — a car, on which were men at work, the 
society walking with badges and standards. 

9th. Shoetnakers — a car drawn by 4 horses, on which were 
8 men working at their trade. 

10th. flatters — a very large car, drawn by 6 horses. On 
the stage there were men at work, at every branch of the busi- 
ness, the kettle with several men busy around it, occupying the 
centre of the sliop. This society displayed many beautiful 
and very appropriate banners, among which was one having 
Washington's likeness and another that of De Witt Clinton 
painted and trimmed in a rich and tasteful style. 

11 th. Stone Masons and 12th House Painters with badges 
and banners. 

13th. Stone Cutters with white aprons, badges and ban- 
ners. 

14th. Chair Makers, exhibited several beautiful specimens 
of chairs highly decorated and many elegant banners. 

15th. Saddlers preceded by a white horse, with a superb 
saddle, 2 cream coloured horses with beautiful saddles, and 2 



UNDER THE AMERICANS. 143 

white horses with elegant harness, all led by blacks dressed in 
the Turkish costume, and the rear was closed by the appren- 
tices of the trade. 

16th. Shipwrights and Calkers. A car drawn by 8 hor- 
ses bearing the model of a large ship of war. The officers and 
crew were personated by boys in appropriate dresses. Col- 
ours were dislpayed in various parts of the vessel, and nume- 
rous banners having on them the names of our most celebrated 
naval officers were borne at the side of the car. 

17th. The Boat Builders had a model of a boat borne by a 
carrier and another drawn by horses. A car drawn by 4 hor- 
ses contained two half finished boats of considerable size, at 
which workmen were employed, while smoke issued from the 
chimney where they warped their plank ::nd timber. 

18th. The Pilots with badges and banners. 

19th. Officers of the Army and Navy. 

20th. Grand Lodge — members richly dressed bearing the 
emblems, jewels and insignia of their order 

21st. The Corporation with their guests including the gov- 
ernor and lieutenant governor. 

22d. The New York Fire department was represented by 
3 companies, No. 20,42,5,13,41,22,7 and 4 with then 
engines and several hook and ladder companies with their im- 
plements raised aloft and handsomely decorated. The appear- 
ance of these engines was beautiful in the extreme. They 
were highly polished and ornamented with various devices 
and at great expense, drawn by four horses each and ac- 
companied by splendid banners, models &c. These were fol- 
lowed by the Fire Wardens with their insignia and a large 
banner. 

23d. The Tin Plate Workers had a car drawn by four hor- 
ses, with a model of some of the locks on the canal, a canal 
boat, barge &c. made of tin. 

24th. The Printer's Society had a car drawn by 4 horses, 
on which were mounted 2 printing presses of most exquisite 
workmanship. On the stage was Mr. James Oram, the 
oldest printer in this city, seated in Dr. Franklin's arm chair. 
The presses worked many thousand copies of an ode written 
for the occasion by S. Woodworth Esq. (see Appendix) which 
were distributed, by two mercuries and two heralds. They 
had two superb banners, painted by John R. Smith Esq. 

25th. The Book Binders had a large volume bound in rq$ 
morocco and gilt and labelled "Erie Canal Statistics." 

26th. Booksellers and Stationers with an elegent banner, 
painted by Inman ? repsenting a female holding "a torch sf 



144 THE CITY OP NEW-YORK. , O^C. 

knowledge.*' On her left a pile of volumes, one of which was 
entitled the "Western Canals,'" with many other highly appro- 
priate embellirhments. 

27th. The Cabinet Makers exhibited many beautiful min- 
iature specimens of their art, decorated with flowers &c. borne 
by members of the society. The banners were elegant and 
appropriate. 

28th. The Coppersmiths had a car drawn by 4 white horses. 
In the centre was represented a line of the canal with locks and 
workmen engaged on both sides. 

The officers of the army and navy, those from West Point 
and the Governor's guards in their elegant uniform made a 
most splendid appearance. 

The Students of Columbia College were dressed in their 
gowns. Their banner, which was very fine, was designed by 
John R. Smith, Esq. 

Besides the above there many other societies joined in tlif 
procession, which room does not permit me to specify. 



THE 

DESCRIPTION 



OF THE 



CITY OF NEW YORK 



PART II. 

CHAPTER I. 

Situation, extent, boundaries, local advantages, Sfc. 

The city stands on what was formerly called Manhattan, 
but now Neio-York Island. It is situated in 40° 42' N. lat. 
and 74° 0' 45' W. Ion. from Greenwich near London, or 3° 
14' 15' E. from the city Washington. 

The limits of the city and county are of equal dimensions. 
They have the same courts of common pleas and general ses- 
sions of the peace, and elect the same members of assembly. 
At present, that branch of the state legislature consists of 128 
members, of whom this city and county send ten. The 
island is about 15 miles in length from N. to S. and in breadth 
from E. to W. varies from little more than a quarter of a mile 
to about two miles. The average width may be estimated at 
a mile and a quarter. It is separated on the N. from the con- 
tinental part of the state by Harlsera river, over which are 
three bridges, viz : those of Harlaem, JYl'Comb's, and King's 
bridge ; from New Jersey on the W. by the river Hudson ; 
from Staten Island on the S. by the bay or harbour, and from 
Long Island on the E. by the East river. 

The soil of the island is greatly diversified in quality, 

though a great part of it is a light sand, or sandy loam ; but it 

i is different towards the North where it is of a better quality, 

and where there are some elevations, which have been deno- 

N 



*46 SITUATION, EXTENT, 

minated Heights* The face of the land was formerly strong- 
ly marked by crags and vallies, hills and dales, insulated 
rocks and marshy inlets, which characterize a maritime coun- 
try, where granite prevails. But by vast labour and expense, 
much of the original roughness has been removed, and the 
surface smoothed as far as was desirable. Many such regula- 
tions are still going on in the outskirts of the city, hundreds 
of cartmen have, for upwards of twenty years, been con- 
stantly employed in this business, and the quantity of earth 
which has been taken from one place to another for the 
purpose of levelling hills and filling up swamps, is almost 
incredible. The good work of improving the city is still 
carried on with unceasing vigour, and those who have engaged 
in it, will, in a few years, be amply repaid for their expendi- 
tures. Notwithstanding the forbidding aspect of the ground, 
such has been the exertions of our citizens, that the agriculture 
is highly honourable to those engaged in it, and the hor* 
ticulture is conducted in a degree of excellence, equal, if not 
superior, to any in this country. The quantity of cultivated 
land, was, agreeably to the last census, 5785 acres. 

There are several villages lying to the northward of the 
compact part of thp city, of which the principal are Green- 
wich, at a distance of about one and a half miles from the City 
Hall. Here is the State Prison, of which notice will be taken 
hereafter. Still farther to the north are Bloomingdale, Manhat- 
tanville, and Harlaem. There are also a number of country 
seats on the island, which are built in so elegant a manner as 
to reflect great honour on the taste of their proprietors. 
Elgin garden, while it belonged to Dr. Hosaqk, was well de- 
serving of notice, as it might be considered as by far the best 
botanical garden in the United States ; but since it was 
sold to the state, in the year 1812, it has almost been en- 
tirely neglected. 

The city of New-York, or the compact part of it, (for the 
city comprehends the whole island, as well as a few small 
islands in its vicinity,) extends from the battery along the 
Hudson river about two miles, and along the East river be- 
tween two and three miles. The streets of the old part, at 
the South end of the island, are in general irregular, narrow, 
crooked, and badly adapted to the comfort of the inhabitants 
or the elegance of the city. Our Common Council have of 
late years, done much to obviate these inconveniencies, by 
straightening a number of crooked streets, and widening 
several which were narrow. These improvements have been 
attended with heavy expenses ; but those who have to pay 



BOUNDARIES, &C. 147 

ior them, do not complain, as the value of their property has 
thereby been greatly enhanced. All the northern part was 
laid out in a judicious manner, in the year 1800, by three 
commissioners appointor! for the purpose, and every new 
street must be formed in the precise spot prescribed in a map 
prepared by their direction, and published by order of the 
Common Council in 1801. This map, which is a complete 
exhibition of the intended streets and improvements, also 
includes the projected works to be completed on the East 
and Hudson's river, from the shores as they then were, to 
the line of limitation, after which all future encroachments 
shall cease. 

Many of the intended streets will be very spacious, run in 
straight lines from river to river, and be intersected at right 
angles, so that the time cannot be distant, when the new part 
of our city will surpass the old in taste, comfort, and conve- 
nience. At present, the surface of the city has a gentle ascent 
from the Hudson and East rivers, which terminate in a hand- 
some elevation, and every where overlooks its sloping sides, 
commanding a fine view, both on the right and left, of the 
rivers above mentioned, as well as of the shipping and the 
opposite shores. From the S. W. corner of the battery, 
Broadway, the most elegant and spacious street which we now 
have, extends in a N. E. direction, to the distance of two 
miles, where it forms a junction with the Bowery. This street 
lies along the aforesaid height, at nearly an equal distance 
from the noble streams which lave the commercial metropolis 
of the United States. Greenwich-street also commences at 
the battery, is th^ third from the Hudson river, and extends 
upwards of two miles to the commencement of the 9th avenue. 
Washington street, the second from the said river, runs paral- 
lel to Greenwich-street, and is nearly of the same length. 
Pearl-street, which now comprehends those streets which were 
formerly known by the names of Duke-street, Hanover-square, 
Queen-street, and Magazine-street, is a place of considerable 
business. It extends, by an irregular and circuitous course, 
from the Battery to Broadway, directly opposite the City 
Hospital. But Wall-street is peculiarly worthy of notice, as 
in it business is transacted to a vast extent. It extends from 
Broadway, in front of Trinity church, to the East river. In 
this street, the Custom-house, and most of the banks and in- 
surance offices are located. Here the greater part of our 
respectable brokers have their offices, and here at the corner 
of Water-street is the Tontine Coffee-house, which is now used 
by our merchants as an Exchange, and on the south side. 



148 SITUATION, EXTENT, BOUNDARIES, &C. 

between William and Pearl-streets, that splendid edifice to be 
denominated " The Merchants' Exchange," is now build- 
ing, in which so great progress has already been made, that 
it will most probably be opened in a few months. There are 
other streets which deserve attention, but my limits compel me 
to brevity. 

The bay is about nine miles long and three wide. From 
the ocean at Sandy Hook to the city, at the head of the bay, 
is 28 miles. The usual tides are about six feet, and the water 
is of sufficient depth to float the largest vessels in the world 5 
and the most numerous fleets, can be moored here in safe- 
ty, where they lie well secured from winds and storms. A 
peculiarity of situation gives to New York a commanding su- 
periority for navigation ; for besides its contiguity to the 
ocean, the cold of winter has less effect upon the waters of its 
harboui th::n on those of several southern ports, such as Phila- 
delphia, Baltimore, and Alexandria, which in severe win- 
ters are obstructed by ice, while we experience little or no 
interruption of that kind. The openness of the port, during 
winter, may be attributed to the greater ebb and flow of 
the tide, and also to the uncommon rapidity of the currents. 
The strength of these, in ordinary tides, and more especially 
when agitated by storms, is sufficient to rend the most solid 
ice, and reduce it to fragments. Our whole harbour was 
covered by a solid bridge of ice in the winter of 1780-81 ; but 
we have seen nothing of the kind since that period, and the 
severe winter of 1804, jyhich completely blocked up many of 
the northern and southern ptf.rts, occasioned little inconve- 
nience to us. 

When we consider the great extent aiid security of our har- 
bour, and that the ingress or egress of vessels, even of the 
largest size is seldom prevented by ice, during the most 
severe winters, and, at the same time, take into consia\?ration 
the immense and increasing navigation of the Hudson and 
East rirers, the vast extent of the fertile regions to the West- 
ward, which must for ever pass through these channels, and the 
great augmentation to our trade which will certainly follow 
the completion of the Grand Canal, we are lost in astonish- 
ment when we contemplate the future grandeur of this com- 
mercial metropolis of America. 

At the commencement of the late war between this country 
and Great Britain in 1812, our city and harbour were in so 
feeble a state of defence that our formidable enemy might have 
easily blasted our enviable prospects. But during the war 
and since its termination, they have been fortified at an enor- 



WARDS. 14y 

inous expense and in so complete a mannner that it is believed 
with about four or five thousand men to man the different works 
a vigorous attempt might be made againtt the most powerful 
invader. The following are the fortifications which have 
been erected fcr the defence of this city and harbour. 1st. 
The North tfattery, on the banks of the Hudson river, about 
one mile to the northward of the Battery.* 2d. Fort Colum- 
bus, on Governor's Island, about half a mile S. from the city. 
3d. Castle William, a strong stone fortress, on a projecting 
point of the same island. 4th. A star fort of compact ma- 
sonry on Bedlow's Island, which lies about a mile to the 
westward of Governor's Island. 5th. A circular battery on 
Ellis's Island, about one mile S. W. from the battery. 6th. 
Fort Richmond, on Staten Island, 8 miles below the city, just 
on the water's edge, at the narrowest point of the passage 
between Long and Staten islands. It is a strong work of hewn 
stone, and well supplied with all the apparatus of war. 7th. 
Fort Tompkins, on a considerable eminence directly in the 
rear of the preceding. 8th. Fort Hudson, at a small distance 
below fort Richmond. 9th. Fort La Fayette, formerly fort 
Diamond, the most powerful of any which has been construct- 
ed for our defence, lies in the Hudson river, about 200 yards 
from Long Island. It is built on made ground on a shoal, 
which could only be seen at low water. All these forts 
are provided with magazines, cisterns, and barracks, and 
some of them with furnaces for heating shot. They are 
placed in the most eligible situations, and when necessity 
shall require, 500 heavy cannon may be placed on them to 
advantage. Hence, if we should be again unfortunately 
involved in war, which God forbid, we shall have less 
reason to dread the attacks of an enemy than we had during 
the last war. 

Our city Government, Trade, Commerce, Manufac- 
tures, &c. &c. will hereafter be noticed under appropriate 
heads. 

WARDS. — The city is now divided into twelve wards, of 
which the following abtract of " An Act to equalize and in- 

* The Battery, though no longer used for defence, still retains its 
former name. It stood on the S. corner of the Island, at the conflu- 
ence of the East and Hudson rivers; but has, fop a number of years, 
been laid out in walks, ornamented with shrubs and trees, and is at 
least as agreeable a promenade as is to be found in the United State. 
Castle Clinton on the S. W. point of the city being found unneces- 
sary for the purpose for which it was intended, has been converted 
into a very agreeable place for refreshment and amusement. It is 
now called Casth Garden. 

N2 



150 WARDS. 

crease the number of Wards in the City of Neio-YorJc, pass- 
ed April 16th, 1829," describes the respective boundaries. 

The First Ward comprehends that part ©f the city which 
lies between the Battery and a line running from the Hudson 
river through Liberty-street and Maiden-lane to the East river. 
It also includes Nutten, Bedlow, Bucking, and the Oyster 
Islands.* 

The Second Ward runs along the easterly bounds of the 
First Ward, from the East river to Broadway, through Broad- 
way to Chatham-street ; from Chatham-street through Spruce 
and Ferry-streets to the East river ; thence along the East 
river to the place of beginning. 

The Third Ward is comprehended between Liberty and 
Reed-streets, the Hudson river and Broadway. 

The Fourth Ward is bounded on the S. YV. by the Second 
Ward ; on the N. E. by Catharine-street , on the East by 
the East river, and on the West by Chatham-street. 

The Fifth Ward lies between Reed and Canal-streets, 
Broadway and the Hudson river. 

The Sixth Ward begins at the corner of Reed-street and 
Broadway; thence through Broadway to Grand-street, through 
Grand-street to the Bowery road ; through the Bowery road 
to Chatham-street ; through Chatham-street to Broadway, and 
from thence up Broadway to the place of beginning. 

The Seventh Ward is comprehended between Catharine 
and Grand streets ; the East river and Division-streets. 

The Eighth Ward runs from the Hudson river through 
Canal-street to Broadway; through Broadway to Grand-st. 
through Grand-street to the Bowery road , through the Bowe- 
ry road t© Houston-street ; through Houston and Hammersley 
streets to the Hudson river, and from thence along the wester- 
ly banks thereof to the place of beginning. 

The Ninth Ward lies between Houston and Hammersley 
steeets on the N. W. ; Fourteenth-street on the S. E. ; and 
between the Bowery road and Hudson river. 

*The City Jurisdiction extends to the land under the adjoining- wa- 
ters, as far as low water mark on the opposite sides. Hence neither 
Long Island, nor the county of Bergen, in New-Jersey, is separated 
from the city by the middle of rivers or channels in the usual way ; hut 
by a line drawn along low water mark on their respective shores, and 
the islands here mentioned constitute a pait of the first ward: while 
Blackwell's, Parnell's, and seme other small islands near Hurlgate 
belong to the 12th Ward. This division, according to our charter, has 
long been in dispute between this and our sister state, and is not yet 
decided. 



REMARKS. 151 

The Tenth Ward is bounded by Grand and Kivington- 
streets, and by the East river and the Bowery road. 

The Eleventh Ward lies between Rivington and Fourteenth 
streets, and the East river and the Bowery road. 

The Twelfth Ward comprehends all the remaining parts 
of the city and county. 

Remarks on our Population. I shall close this chapter 
with some observations on our population, not only as it now is : 
but likewise, as it has been at different periods, since the first 
settlement of our city. Jt is well known, that the city of New- 
York, or as it was originally called Fort Amsterdam was found- 
ed by the Dutch in 1629, since which time, few if any of the 
cities now in existence, have increased with so great rapidity. 
Of the number of settlers then brought to this island, we have 
no information ; but they could not have been many, as we find, 
that according to the first enumeration on record, viz : in the 
year 1697? they only amounted to 4082. In 1756* we had 
10,768 whites and 2272 persons of colour making a total of 
13040. For the year 1771 our inhabitants were 21,865 and in 
1786, 23,619* And here it may be observed, that from 1771 
to 1786, a period of fifteen years, our increase in population 
was only 1,744 ; but let it be remembered, that during seven 
of these years, the growth of our city was greatly impeded by 
the revolutionary war. In 1790, the number of our inhabi- 
tants was 33,131 ; in 1800, 60,489; in 1805, 75,770 J in 
J 808, 83,530; in 1810, 100,619; in 1820, 123,706 and in 
1826,166,085. 

Upon the rapid and regular increase of our population, it 
may not be improper to indulge in a few reflections. In the 
year 1805, the number of our inhabitants was 75,770, and in 
1825,. 166,085 from which it appears that in these twenty 
years, our population after having doubled, left an overplus of 
14,685, and if we shall merely double our number, dur- 
ing the next twenty years, and this may be reasonably 
expected, it will in the year 1845 amount to 332, 170, and 
supposing it to increase in the same ratio, during the twenty 
years then n< xt ensuing, in the year 1865, our number 
will amount to 564,340. Without going into any further 
calculations on the subject, it almost amounts to a certainty, 

* In that year a census was taken of the whole province, when it 
appeared that the number of whites was 83,223, and of persons of col- 
our 13,542, making the entire number in the province (now the state 
of New-York, no more than 96,765.) The city in the present year 
(1826) nearly contains twice as many. 



152 REiMARKS ON OUR POPULATION. 

that unless we shall be afflicted with war, pestilence, famine, 
earthquakes, or some other dreadful visitation of Divine Pro- 
vidence, we shall, at the close of the present century, not only 
equal ; but far surpass either of the great cities of London or 
Paris, in population, trade, commerce, navigation, arts, 
sciences, &c. 

Let us now inquire, in what direction the augmentation to 
the number of our inhabitants is most likely to take place and 
what precautionary measures, it will be necessary, for our 
Common Council to adopt in consequence thereof. In the 
first three wards the inhabitants amount to 28,044. Now the 
Third ward is bounded on the North by a line from Broadway 
through Reed-street to the North River and the second by a 
line running from Chatham through Spruce Street, &c. to the 
East River. The first of these lines is two blocks to the North 
Eastward of the City Hall and the other, one block to the 
South Westward. But let us suppose for the sake of fixing 
upon a certain noted spot, thai the first three wards lie be- 
tween the battery and a line drawn in front of the City Hall 
and extending from River to River, it would follow, that be- 
tween the battery and that building, there are 28,044 inhabi- 
tants and that the remaining 138,041 are above it. In that 
portion of the city however, it is obvious, that the number of 
buildings will not be increased. Old houses may be pulled 
down and new ones erected ; but such is the eligibility of that 
section for the extension of trade and commerce, that when 
dwelling houses are erased, banks, insurance offices, counting 
houses or store houses are often erected in their stead. The 
Merchants' Exehange which will soon be completed, alone 
occupies the scite of, at least, one dozen of former buildings. 
The number of inhabitants, therefore in that part of the 
city, instead of increasing or remaining stationary will rather 
diminish and our further increase must take place in that part 
of the city which lies above the City Hall. 

If our present population consisting of 166,085 be doubled 
in twenty years, it would amount to 332,170 in the year 1845, 
and while the number of inhabitants below the City Hall, 
could not for reasons already assigned, exceed 28,044 those 
above it would be no fewer than 304,126. — a great dis- 
proportion indeed! The City Hall instead of standing as it 
should, at or near the centre of our metropolis, will when that 
period shall arrive be at one extremity. Most of those who 
shall then have business with our courts will loudly complain, 
that they have too far to travel to the seat of justice, which 
ought to be brought as nearly as possible to every man's door. 



REMARKS ON OUR POPULATION. J 5 3 

Under these circumstances, it does not require the gift of pro- 
phecy to foresee that our Common Council will find it necessary 
to erect a new City Hall in a more convenient situation. It may 
be said, however, thaf it will be soon enough to take the sub- 
ject into consideration when the exigency shall have actually 
arrived. This is an absurd opinion ; for who does not know 
that a piece of ground may now be bought, at a much less price 
than it will be possible to purchase it for ten or twelve years 
hence. It gives me pleasure to learn that the Common Council 
have it now under consideration to fix upon a su table place 
for a military parade ground. This is certainly a most de- 
sirable object ; for our militia, particularly those in uniform, is 
a body of men, who from their zeal to make themselves ac- 
quainted with the art of war, and a thorough knowledge of 
military tactics, so that, when their services may be wanted to 
defend their country in the hour of danger, they may be able 
to act in the most effectual manner, are not only entitled to 
the greatest applause; but, likewise, to every suitable en- 
couragement. It is earnestly to be wished, however, that the 
early location of such other public squares as may be neces- 
sary will meet with due attention. But on this we have no- 
thing to fear, as the improvement of the city has been for 
many years, and still continues to be the favourite object with 
our Common Council. 

In a city so great, as this seems destined to be, at no very 
distant period, the laying out of public squares in suitable 
places will be found not only ornamental ; but highly con- 
ducive to the convenience, comfort and health of the public in 
general ; particularly of the poor and those, who are in limi- 
ted circumstances. During the sultry heat of the summer, 
the rich can retire with their families to their country seats; 
while the poor and many others, who cannot leave their bus- 
iness, are debarred from that enjoyment. But if a number of 
public squares or pieces of ground in any other shape, laid 
out in handsome walks and ornamented with trees, in the same 
manner as the Park and Battery, should be provided, such 
persons might retire thither with their children at their leisure 
hours, where they would be invigorated by the pure air and 
refreshing breeze. This may tend greatly to brace their 
nerves, exhilarate their spirits and to preserve their health ; in 
consequence of which many of our industrious poor might, 
■during the hot weather, by God's blessing retain their usual 
strength, and be able to provide for themselves and families, 
who, without such accommodations, might in consequence of 
debility yt disease, be rendered incapable of pursuing theu 
daily labour and become a burden to the community. 



54 



CENSUS, WITH REMARKS. 



CHAPTER II. 

Abstract Of the Census of the City and County of New- 
York, taken in the year 1825, by authority of the State. 









Males sub- 




. 


Wards. 


Males. 


Females. 


Total. 


ject to mili- 
tia dtuy. 


Electors. 


Male aliens. 


1st, 


5,191 


4,738 


9,929 


1,011 


1,016 


428 


2d. 


5,535 


3,780 


9,315 


2,027 


1,527 


763 


3d. 


5,-302 


5,499 


10,801 


1,906 


2,070 1,001 


4th 


6,240 


6,000 


12,240 


1,062 


1,808 1,688 


5th. 


6.777 


8,316 


15,093 


1,668 


1,837 


1,748 


6th. 


10,197 


9,864 


20,061 


1,889 


1,267 


5,082 


7th. 


6.960 


7,232 


14,192 


1,021 


1,346 


1,754 


8th. 


11,638 


12,647 


24,285 


1,101 


2,273 


2,049 


9th 


5,647 


5,309 


l ('..JOG 


1,226 


1,222 


1,726 


1,0th 


11,705 


12,227 


23,332 


1,350 


2,769 


1,183 


11th 


3,84'. 3,5U2 


7,344 


370 


739 


262 


12th 


4,003 


3,935 


7,938 


nj s* <tj 


409 


. 1>142 


83,037 


83,049 


166,086 


14,956 


18,283 


18,826 



The marshpkc -skewise, reported as many of the items 
herein after m ntiooed as occurred in their respective wards; 
but as it appears unnecessary to particularize them in each 
ward, it is deemed > fScient to give the aggregate for the city 
and county. 

Paupers, of whom ihere were 1806 in the Alms house 
Persons o*' ?uur not taxed - - 12,499 

Do. do. taxed - 60 

Do. do. taxed and qualified to vote 16 

Married females under the age of 45 years - 
Females unmmarried between the ages of 16 and 45 
Females unmarried under the age of 16 - 
Marriages, the year preceding 
Births, the year preceding 




Deaths 



do. 



Number of acres of improved land 
Number of horses - 
Number of hogs - 
Number of neat cattle 



Males 2,262 } 
Females 2,267 S 

Males 2,055 ~) 
Females 1,186 £ 



22,430 

21,049 

30,445 

810 

4,529 



3,239 

5,786 
5,634 
7,140 
3,569 



CENSUS, WITH REMARKS. 155 

Yards of fulled cloth of domestic manufacture - - 8,06? 

Do. flannel and other woollen cloth, not fulled ~) fi9 

of domestic manufacture $ 

Do. linnen, cotton, or other thin cloths of ). ./..^ 

domestic manufacture $ l,i()4,^u 

Gristmills - .- - - .- - - -4 

Saw mills ...... - - 3 

Oil mills - - - -- - - - -2 

Fulling mills -----.--2 

Carding machines - - - - -.'■'- -4 

Cotton factories ------- 1 

Woollen factories - .- - - - - -2 

Iron works -----.--3 

Triphammers - - - - - - - -1 

Distilleries ------..19 

DEAF AND DUMB. 

Males 32 ~) 

Females 24 k *^> °f whom 34 are supported by charity. 

IDIOTS. 

Males 31 ~) 

xr 1 -. r > 46, of whom 3 are supported by charitv. 

remales 15 S r J 

LUNATICS. 



Males 
Females 




193 



Of these, 3 are reported as being able to support them- 
selves, and 189 as being in the twelfth ward, where they are 
confined for safe keeping in the Bellevue Hospital or Lunatic 
Asylum. 

Remarks on the census of 1825. 

Males and Females. The number of inhabitants are sta- 
ed at 166,086, of whom 83,037 are males and 83,049 females, 
leaving a difference of only 12 in favour of the latter. It is, 
likewise, remarkable, that of the whole number of births re- 
ported viz : 4589 ; 2262 are males and 2267 females, a ma- 
jority in favour of the latter of only 5. This coincidence of 
so great an equality of number between the sexes, not only of 
those who have been on the stage of existence for some time 
but of those who have just entered upon it has seldom, if 
ever been observed in any statistical document. Hence, it 

The total'population o f the state according to the same Census... 
Males, 822,89? Females, 793,561 = 1,616,458. 



156 CENSUS WITH REMARKS. 

appears, that, in this city, every woman may have her own 
husband, and that should they al! be provided for in this man- 
ner, there would only be 17 females young or old left to shift 
for themselves. 

Electors. Agreeably to the former constitution, none 
could vote for governor, lieutenant governor and senators ex- 
cept such citizens as possessed clear freehold estate to the 
value of $250; but according to the new constitution, which 
went into operation, January 1st 1823, the elecctive franchise 
is as widety extended as could be wished and more so than 
some of our most respectable citizens deem consistent with the 
public good. Every male citizen, who has been for 12 months 
an inhabitant of the sate, and of the county for six months 
immediately before the election, who has within the year, 
paid tax, done militia duty, served as a fireman, laboured on 
the public roads, or paid an equivalent therefor, is entitled to 
vote not only for charter officers, in the ward, in which 
he resides ; for sheriff, coroner, register and clerk of the city 
and county; members of assembly, and members of Congress; 
and electors of President and Vice President of the United 
States : but also for Governor, lieutenant Governor and Sena- 
tors of this state ; but no man of colour unless a resident in 
the state for t'^ree years and possessed, for one year, of a free- 
hold estate of $250 and who has paid tax is entitled to a vote. 

Births, Marriages and Deaths, Although I am fully per- 
suaded that the marshals appointed to take the census studied 
to render their reports as accurate as possible ; yet, for rea- 
sons, which I shall now mention, it may be safely asserted, 
that they greatly erred in respect to the number of deaths. 
The City Inspector in his annual report to the Common 
Council states, that in the year 1825, the number of inter- 
ments was 5018, while according to that of the marshals, it 
only amounts to 3239. On the accuracy of the former, great 
reliance may be placed, as it is made the duty of each of the 
sextons, under a penalty of $25, to deliver to the City Inspec- 
ter on every Saturday, a return of the persons buried by them 
during the preceeding week, specifying their age, sex, disease, 
place of residence, interment, &c. of each of which aregister is 
kept. Now the marshals had no such means of obtaining correct 
information. When one of these gentlemen called at a bouse, 
he would ask whether any death, birth or marriage had hap- 
pened in the family during the preceeding year. The master 
or mistress were frequently absent, or could not be seen, and 
the person, whom he accosted might be a minor perhaps a ser- 
vant, who knew or cared very little about the affairs of the 






REPORT OP INTERMENTS. 



15? 



family. Hence the great difference in the number of deaths 
between the Marshals and City Inspector The latter, in his 
statement, which is prepared at his leisure, from written copy 
before him, reports 5018 interments, while the amount given 
by the marshals is only 3239. 

It is therefore, evident, that the aggregate of the marshals' 
reports differ widely from the true one, and is it not certain 
that, for the same reason, their number of births and deaths 
is likewise erroneous ? Let us suppose that in both, the mis- 
take has been exactly in the same proportion as in that of the 
deaths, viz : as 3239 to 5018, it would then follow, that the 
number of births instead of being 4,329 would be 6,909, and 
that for 810 marriages we should have 1254. Our statement 
of deaths, births and marriages for the year 1825 would then 
be as follows : 

Deaths, as reported by the City Inspector - 5018 

Births, by calculation ----- 6909 

Marriages by do. ------ 1254 

I am far from supposing, that the number of births and mar- 
riages, as given above is absolutely correct ; but if my rea- 
ders have attentively perused the preceding paragraph, they 
will be satisfied that it is nearly so. At all events, from the 
data before me, it will appear obvious that it was not in my 
power to form a more accurate conclusion. 

ABSTRACT 

Of Dr. George Cuming, the City Inspector's annual report 
of interments in the years 1824 and 1825, shewing the 
sexes , ages, and diseases of those ivho died. 



In 1824 
1825 



Men. 

1,244 
1,721 



Women. 

887 
1,180 



Boys. 


Girls. 


1,204 


1,096 


1,156 


961 



Total. 

4,341 

5,018 



THE AGES OF WHOM WERE 



Of one year and under 
Between one and two years 
Do. two and five - 
do. five nnd ten 
do. ten and twenty 
do. twenty and thirty 
do. thirty and forty 
do forty and fifty 



O 



1824. ! 1825. 



389 
164 
190 
559 
544 
425 



1,072 1,109 
397 386 



300 
137 
181 
653 
758 
641 



158 



REPORT OF INTERMENTS. 



Between fifty and sixty 


- 




258 


357 


do. sixty and seventy 


- 


- 


159 


226 


do. seventy and eighty 


- 




115 


161 


do. eighty and ninety 


- 


- 


56 


88 


do. ninety and a hundred 


- 




11 


14 


do. one hundred and upwards 






2 
4,341 


7 
5,018 


DISEASES AND CASUALTIES. 










1824. 


1825. 


Abscess - 


- 


- 


~7 


12 


Aneurism - 


- 




2 


4 


Apoplexy - 


- 


- 


52 


147 


Asphyxia - 


- 




1 


4 


Asthma -.-'■" 


- 


- 


5 


12 


Burnt or scalded - 


- 




31 


30 


Carbuncle - 


- 


- 


1 


3 


Caries - 


. 







1 


Cancer - 


- 


- 


9 


13 


Casualties --'-.- 


- 




33 


53 


Catarrh -.--..- 


- 


- 


4 


1 


Child-bed - 


- 




44 


30 


Chicken-pox - 


- 


- 





1 


Cholera morbus - - - - 


• 




22 


26 


Cholic - - - 


. 


- 


10 


6 


Compression of the brain 


- 







3 


Consumption - 


- 


- 


736 


843 


Convulsions - 


. 




231 


293 


Contusion or bruise 


- 


- 


1 


4 


Cramp in the stomach 


- 




8 


9 


Diabetes - 


- 


- 


2 


1 


Diarrhoea - 


• 




55 


61 


Drinking cold water 


- 


- 


3 


77 


Dropsy - 


- 




115 


110 


Dropsy in the chest - 


- 


- 


44 


37 


Dropsy in the head - --.."*■ 


- 




218 


196 


Drowned - 


- 


- 


53 


56 


Dysentery - 


- 




120 


138 


Dsypepsia or indigestion 


- 


- 


5 


5 


Epilepsy -•.---.- 


- 




10 


6 


Erysipelas --'.-.- 


- 


- 


8 


16 


Fever - 


- 




32 


120 


bilious - 


- 


- 


11 J 


10 


bilious remittent - 


a 




14' 


6 



REPORT OF INTERMENTS. 



159 



Fever hectic or slow 

inflammatory 

intermittent 

puerperal 

putrid 

remittent 

scarlet 

typhus 
Flux infantile 
Fracture - 
Frozen - 

Gout - 

Gravel - 
Hemorrhage 

Haemoptysis or spitting blood 
Herpes - 

Hives or croup 
Hysterics 
Jaundice - 

Infanticide 

Inflammation of the bladder 
of the bowels 
of the brain 
of the chest 
of the liver 
of the stomach 
Influenza - 

Insanity 
Intemperance 
Killed or murdered 
Leprosy - 

Locked jaw 
Lumber abscess 
Manslaughter - 

Marasmus - 

Measles - 
Mortification - 
Nervous disease 
Old age - 

Palsy - 

Peripneumony 
Pleurisy - 
Pneumonia typhoides 
Quinsy - 



1824. 


1825 


2 





8 


3 


15 


10 


6 


5 


3 


1 


25 


45 


3 


10 


73 


227 


102 


151 


2 


7 





3 


2 


2 


4 


3 


14 


16 


8 


9 





2 


139 


133 


2 


1 


12 


15 


1 


3 


3 


3 


108 


104 


46 


107 


140 


203 


37 


56 


15 


13 


2 


32 


7 


26 


70 


84 


1 


3 





1 


11 


14 


1 


2 





1 


24 


53 


100 


53 


13 


21 


5 


9 


151 


203 


40 


62 


31 


43 


34 


42 


5 


7 


15 


8 



160 



REPORT OF INTERMENTS. 







1824. 


1825. 


Rheumatism 


- - _ m 


5 


14 


Rickets 


.... 


1 


1 


Rupture 


_ 


6 


3 


St. Anthony's fire 


- 


6 


4 


Schirrus of the liver 


.... 


1 


1 


Scrophula or King's evi 


1 


15 


14 


Small pox 


- 


394 


40 


Sore throat 


■ ---.,» 


21 


33 


Spasms 


- 


6 


3 


Spina bifida 


- 


1 


1 


Sprue - 


- 


24 


18 


Still born 


- 


250 


244 


Sudden death 


, 


8 


49 


Suicide 


_ 


19 


14 


Syphilis 


- 


12 


15 


Tabes mesenterica 


- 


120 


143 


Teething 


- 


46 


61 


Tumour 


_ 


1 





Vomiting blood 


. 


1 


1 


Ulcer 


. - - - - 


11 


6 


Unknown 


.... 


86 


111 


White swelling 


1 


3 


5 


Whooping cough 


. 


116 


69 


Worms 


_ 


13 


24 






4,341) 


5,018 




DEATHS 






In each month during the years 1824 at 


id 1825. 






ere 


1824 
345 


1825. 


In January the deaths w 


317 


February 


. 


363 


440 


March 


- 


385 


362 


April 


- 


411 


305 


May 


- 


353 


405 


June 


- 


318 


419 


July 


. 


357 


733 


August 


. 


446 


512 


September 


- 


352 


407 1 


October 


_ 


385 


36$ 


November 


- 


340 


37<J 


December 




286 


376 




4,341 


5,01 8j 



A LIST OP CHURCHES, &C. l6l 

REMARKS. 

It appears that the number of deaths which occurred in this 
city last year, was 5,018, and the City Inspector states in his 
report that of these 873 were persons of colour. This is a 
little more than one sixth of the whole mortality, as according 
to the last census the proportion of our coloured population to 
the whites is nearly as one to fourteen, the whole number of 
inhabitants being 166,085, while that of persons of colour is 
only stated at 12,575. 

The deaths by consumption were 843, about one sixth 
part of the whole, and of these 118 were people of colour. 
This is a dreadful scourge ; but it might often be prevented 
by a strict adherence to temperance, avoiding unnecessary 
exposure to cold, and suiting our apparel to the varying 
changes of the weather. A common catarrh, when neglectedj 
often terminates in this frightful disease. 

The increase of deaths last year contrasted with that of 
the preceding, was 677, which, without referring to the 
increase of our population, was certainly ©wing to the exces- 
sive heat in the month of July, during the whole of which the 
weather continued to be hotter than in any preceding season 
for many years. 



CHAPTER III. 

A list of the places of public worship in this city, in the pres- 
ent year ^1826) arranged in Alphabetical order, according 
to their respective denominations, shewing their locations, 
dimensions, dates, at which they were erected, enlarged or 
rebuilt, the names of their pastors, Sfc. 8fc. 

Baptist Churches. 

1st. The First Baptist Church is a stone building 65 
by 80 = 5200 feet square, and was erected in 1769. Pastor 
the Rev. William Parkinson. 

2d. The Bethel Baptist Church in Delancey, corner 
of Christie-Street is a brick building 05 by 85=5525 feet 
square and was erected in the year 1819. This is the second 
Baptist Church in the city, and was organized in the year 
1770. The Rev. Mr. Johnson Chase is pastor. 

3d. Oliver-Street Church, near Chatham-Street, a stone 
bailing 64 by 94 = 6016 feet square, was erected in 1795 ^en- 
larged in 1800, and rebuilt in 1819. The Rev. Mr. Spencer 
H. Cone is pastor. 

02 



lC2 A LIST OP CHURCHES. 

4th. The Abyssinian Church,* 42 by 60=2520 feet square, 
a frame building, was erected in Anthony, between Church and 
Chapel Streets, in the year 1805. Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Ben- 
jamin Paul. 

5th. BitooME-Street Church, near the Bowery Road, a frame 
building, 34 by 71—2414 feet square, was erected in 1806 and 
enlarged in 1817. Pastor the Rev. Mr. Marsh. 

6th. Mulberry-Street Church, near Chatham-Street, un- 
der the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Archibald M'Clay, was 
erected in 1809, and rebuilt and enlarged in 1S17. Dimen- 
sions, 63 feet in front by 90 in depth=5670 feet square. 

7th. The Beriah Baptist Church in Vandam-Street, 40 by 
55=2200 feet square, is a frame building, under the pastoral 
care of the Rev. Mr. Aaron Perkins, erected in 1810. 

8th. York-Street Church, directly in the rear of St. 
John's Church, is a frame building 27 feet by 40=1080 feet 
square and was erected in 1 818. They have no regular min- 
isters, any one of the members being at liberty to speak. 

9th. The South Baptist Church, a stone building in 
Nassau-Street, between John and Fulton-Streets, 46 by 65= 
2990 feet square and was built in 1 803 by the Associate Pres- 
byterian Church. In the year 1824, it was purchased- by the 
aforesaid South Baptist Church, since which time they have 
occupied it as a house of public worship. The Rev. Mr. 
Charles G. Somers is pastor. 

10th. Provost-Street Church, a frame building with 
a brick front, 40 by 60=2400 feet square, was erected by a 
Presbyterian Church, under the ministry of the Rev. James G. 
Ogilvie ; but in 1825, it was purchased by a Baptist Con- 
gregation, now under the pastoral charge of the Rev. Mr. 
Thomas Hand. 

11th. A church composed of a part of the members, who 
belonged to the York-Street Church and of others, who had 
joined them, formed themselves into a congregation in 182'\ 
They are under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. William 
Ovington, and worship in a large school room in Broadway ^ 
corner of Reed Street. 

12th. The Union Baptist Church under the pastoral 
care of the Rev. Mr. Samuel Eastman was opened in the 
year 1825, in a frame building 25 by 75 = 1875 feet square^ in 
the Bowery, opposite Spring-Street. 

13th. The church under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. 
John C. Murphy, has been organized since the year 1824, and 
now worship in a frame building 40 by 50=2000 feet square, 

* The Pastor and congregation are persons of colour. 



A LIST OF CHURCHES. lGS 

erected in 1818 in Broorae-Street, between Cannon and Lewis- 
Streets. This place is known by the name of The Mission 
House, and was occupied by a Methodist Congregation, till 
May 1826, when they took possession of their new church in 
Willet, near Broome-Street. 

14th. A Church was formed in 1824, under the pastoral 
care of the Rev. Mr. Amasa Smith, which now worship in the 
school room in Elizabeth, near Bleecker-Street, belonging to the 
Bethel Baptist Church; but this congregation expect in a short 
time to build a house of worship for themselves on a part of 
the Baptist burying ground in Amity-Street. 

Friend's Meeting Houses. 

It appears from some old Records, that their first place of 
public worship in this city was built in Green, near Liberty- 
Street, about the year 1706. They, in 1775, erected a brick 
meeting house in Pearl-Street, 48 by 68=3,264 feet square ; 
and in 1802 rebuilt and enlarged another in Liberty-Street. 
This is, likewise a brick building, 44 by 56=2,464 feet square. 
The former of these was taken down in 1824 and stores and 
dwelling houses substituted in its place. The latter still re- 
mains ; but is now occupied by Messieurs Grant Thorburn 
& Son, Seedsmen and Florists. 

The society of Friends have now three places of public 
worship in this city. 1st. A brick Church in Hester-Street 
60 by 68=4080 feet sqare, which was built in 1819. 2d. 
a frame building 25 by 35—875 feet square, at Manhattan- 
vine. 3d. A large brick building 58 by 80=4640 feet square, 
rebuilt in Rose-Street in 1824. 

In this society, the preaching of the gospel is not con- 
lined to men; as women, likewise officiate. Their present 
ministers are Thovias Hawxhurst, Willett Hicks, John 
Wood and John Barrow. 

Ann Shipley, Mary Bostwick, Mary King, Elizabth 

COGGSHALL, PhOEBE PALMER, PhOF.BE I. MeRRIT, ELIZA- 
BETH Bird, Mary Hinsdale and Clarissa Gripfen. 

Hebrews. 
The Hebrews or Jews, as they are commonly called, wor- 
shipped for some years, in a frame building in Mill-Street, op- 
posite to the place, where their present synagogue now stands. 
It is a neat stone building 36 by 58=2,030 feet square ; erect- 
ed in 1730, and rebuilt in 1818. This congregation, which 
js known by the name ofSHERRETH Israel /. e. The rem- 
nant of Israel, is incorporated according to law. The Rev. 
Mr. Gershom Seixas, predecessor of the present minister, the 



1 64 A LIST OF CHURCHES. 

Rev. M. L. M. Peixotto, officiated at the head of the syna- 
gogue for upwards of fifty years. 

Independent or Congregational Churches. 

Between these and the Presbyterians, the difference is not 
great. They profess their belief in the sacred scriptures and 
their adherence to the doctrine therein contained, as set forth 
in the Westminister Confession of faith and in the larger and 
shorter catechisms. They only differ in the article of church 
government, each congregation having exclusive jurisdiction 
over its own members and being amenable to no other earthly 
tribunal $ and in fine, they declare themselves, to be actuated 
by the same principles as the people called Independents in 
Great Britain and Congregationalists in the Eastern States. 
In this city, there are four congregations, belonging to this 
connexion, which are represented in an Assoc jation held 
monthly for the management of their general concerns. 

The first of these, a frame building with a brick front, was 
erected in Thompson, near Broome-Street, in 1823. It is 40 
by 60 and contains 2400 square feet. The Reverend Mr. 
Joseph Harrison is pastor. 

The second, at present worship in the African Free 
School in Mulberry-Street, where divine service, is in gen- 
eral performed in the Welsh language ; but sometimes in Eng- 
lish Their pastor is the Rev. Mr. James Davies. 

The third, which is under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. 
John Dick, have completed in the present year a frame build- 
ing with a brick front in Fourth-Street, near Avenue D. It is 
40 by 64=25(30 feet square. 

The fourth was organized in August 1825 and worships, at 
present in a school house, in Broadway near the House of 
Refuge. Having no fixed pastor, divine service is perform- 
ed by the ministers of the three churches in connexion with 
them; but n& the congregation is rapidly increasing, it is ex- 
pected that they will soon have a settled pastor and a place of 
their own for public worship. 

Lutherans. 
The Lutherans have two churches in this city. The first 
is Christ church, a stone building at the corner of William and 
Frankfort-Streets, 34 by 60=2040 feet square, and was erected 
in 1767. In this church, divine service is performed in the 
German language, and the Rev. Mr. F. W. Geisenhamer is 
pastor. The other? St. Matthew's church, which is a hand- 
some brick building, in Walker-Street, 60 by 95=5700 feet 



A LIST OF CHURCHES. lG5 

square, was finished in 1822, and is under the pastoral care 
of the Rev. Mr. F. C. Schosffer. 

Methodist Episocpal Churches. 
To which is prefixed a brief account of the introduction of 

Methodism in this city and its subsequent progress. 

In the origin and progress of this denomination of chris- 
tians amongst us, there is something peculiarly interesting. 
In the year J 766, Methodism made its appearance in America, 
when a'few members, with Mr. Philip Embury a local preacher, 
having emigrated from Ireland, settled in this city. Being 
few in number, surrounded by strangers and neglecting the 
assembling themselves together for divine worship, on the first 
day of the week, they all, except Mr Embury, soon aban- 
doned their religious principles and gave way to the allure- 
ments of the world, in this hopeless state, they remained, till 
the following year, when another family from Ireland, former- 
ly connected with those above mentioned, likewise arrived 
here. Mr. Embury, at the earnest entreaty of the mother oi 
this family, began to preach in his own house and to his own 
people, the congregation being at first composed of himself 
and five others. By persevering in the good work, however 
they began to attract public attention, and the increase of hear- 
ers was so rapid, as to render it soon necessary to rent a lar- 
ger room. This small society was soon after greatly assisted 
by the labours of Captain Webb of the British army. Hi: 
commission as an officer did not prevent him from becoming 
a zealous preacher of the blessed gospel and by his exertions, 
many were added to the church. The novelty of his appear- 
ance as a preacher of Christ, in his regimentals excited no small 
surprise ; but the energy, with which he spoke in the name oi 
the Lord convinced many, that he was commissioned from 
God, to shew them the way of salvation. 

To remedy the inconvenience arising from the smallness 
of their room, a rigging loft was hired and fitted up ior public 
worship. Here they assembled for a considerable time, and 
Mr. Embury continued to preach with success, being occasion- 
ally assisted by Captain Webb, who was, at intervals, absent 
upon Long Island and at Philadelphia, in b ;th which places as 
well as others, he was a zealous minister. Through the faith- 
ful labours of these two preachers, the society greatly nourish- 
ed. In consequence of the increase of members and hearers, 
they found that this place was too small, and began to think ot 
building a permanent house of worship. Many difficulties, 
however, occurred to prevent the execution of this pious design. 



L6C) A LIST OP CHURCHES. 

The society being in general poor, had not the means adequate 
to such an undertaking. For some time, a painful suspense 
seemed to occupy their minds; but they, at last, resolved to 
throw themselves on the benevolence of their fellow citizens. — 
They accordingly issued a subscription paper, went to the 
Mayor and other opulent citizens, from whom after they had 
explained their design, they received liberal donations. Cap- 
tain Webb also lent his assistance. Thus encouraged, they pur- 
chased a lot of ground in John-Street, on which they erected a 
stone building, 42 by 60—2520 feet square, calling i; from res- 
pect to their venerable founder, Wesley Chapel. Such, 
however, were at that time the municipal regulations of the 
city and province of New- York, that they were not allowed to 
devote the house exclusively to divine worship. They there- 
fore appropriated a small part of it for domestic purposes. — 
This was the first house of public worship erected by a Meth- 
odist congregation in America, and was built in the year 1768, 
on the same spot, on which their church as rebuilt and enlarged 
in 1817 now stands. 

From this very small beginning, they have increased, in at 
astonishing manner; as according to "The minutes of the sev- 
eral annual conferences of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
for the year 1825" their number amounted to 341,114 and it 
is highly probable, that they have full as many hearers, who 
are not in communion with them 

Methodist Episcopal Churches. Their first church as ha 
been already observed, was erected in John-Street in 1768 an 
rebuilt and enlarged in 18] J. Its dimensions are 62 by 78 feet 
=4836 feet square. A second 50 by 70=3500 feet square, was 
built in Forsyth-Street in 1780; a third in Duane-Street 56 by 
75=4200 feet square in 1795; a fourth in Allen-Street 55 by 
70=3850 feet square in 1809. The above four are stone build- 
ings ; a fifth 42 by 60=2520 feet square, was built in Bedford- 
Street in 1809 ; a sixth in Nicholas-William-Streel, 33 by 
56=1,848 feet square^ in 1818. These two last are Frame 
buildings, and the seventh a stone bui ding, in Willet, near 
Broome-Street, 55 by 76=3960 feet square, was finished this 
year (1826.) 

No pastor in this connexion is to be considered as minister 
of any particular congregation, as they preach by rotation in 
all the churches, within the station in which they have been 
assigned. The fo. lowing are the preachers now officiating in 
this city. Rev. Mr. Laban Clark, presiding elder of the dis- 
trict; the Rev. Messieurs Peter P. Sanford, H, Stand, 
William Jewett, I. Youngs, D. Devinne and Henry 



A LIST OP CHUKCHES. 16?' 

Chase ; Rev. Messieurs Nathan Bangs and John Emery, 
book agents, and the Rev. Mr. John M. Smith, president of 
the W esleyan Seminary. 

The Methodist Society. In the year 1820, a number of 
members, in the aforesaid connection, becoming dissatisfi- 
ed with the nature and practice of its ecclesiastical govern- 
ment, withdrew from its communion, adopted a mode of dis- 
cipline more congenial to their ideas of propriety and formed 
themselves into a separate body under the name of "The Meth- 
odist Society. In this city, they have three churches, all of 
which are built of brick and incorporated as the law directs. 
0f these, there is one is Christie-Street, 50 by 78=3900 feet 
square, built in 1821 and of which the Rev. Mr. William 
Stillwell is pastor; one at the corner of Pitt and Delancey 
Streets, in 1823, 25 by 60 = 1500 square feet, of which the 
Rev. Mr. Samuel Budd is minister, and the third in Sullis'an- 
Street, built in 1824, which is under the pastoral care of the 
Rev. Messieurs James Covell and Isaac Lent. 

African Methodists. Of these, there are three congrega- 
tions in this city, which till within a few years, were likewise, 
in union with the Methodist Episcopal Church; but though 
still agreeing with that body in doctrine, they then deemed it 
expedient to withdraw from their connection and to assume 
such mode of government as to each might appear proper, — 
Their first place of worship being 55 by 70—3,850 square 
feet, is a stone building, called The Zion Methodist 
Church, at the corner of Church and Leonard Streets, which 
•was erected in 1800 and rebuilt and enlarged in 1820. The 
ministers are the Rev. Messrs. Javes Varrick. James Smith 
and Christopher, Rush. The second is a wooden building 
in Mott Street 28 by 38=1,160 feet square and was erected in 
1806. Ministers the Rev. Messieurs Henry Hardin and 
Wiliam Wood. And the third, which is, likewise of wood, 
40 by 55—2,200 feet square, was erected in Elizabeth Street 
1809. Pastors the Rt. Rev. Mr. William Miller, bishop, 
and Mr. Stephen Dutton. 

Moravian Church. 

A brick building in Fulton near William-Street 33 by 44— 
1,452 feet square erected in the year 1751, of which the Rev. 
Mr. Benjamin Mortimer is pastor. 

New Jerusalem Church. 

A wooden building in L'earl near Cross-Street erected in 
1796, 35 by 50=1750 feet square. This house has been 



1G8 A LIST OP CHURCHES. 

used as a place of public worship, by different religious so- 
cieties, the last of which was a presbyteriun congregation, un- 
der the care of the Rev. Mr. I. S. C. Fuey, and from them it 
was purchased by its present occupants, in the year 1821. 
The Rev. Mr, Charles I. Doughty is minister. 

Presbyterian Churches. 
Of these there are 22 in this city, of which the first 20 are 
under the direction of the General Assembly of the Pres- 
byterian Church in the United States and are closely 
connected with the Reformed Dutch Church ; as the ministers 
of both denominations freely exchange pulpits, and have no 
essential difference in respect to doctrine or discipline. They 
are divided into two presbyteries viz : The presbytery of New 
York, consisting of 17 congregations and the second presbyte- 
ry of New York. This last was formerly a part of the Associ- 
ate Reformed Church; but in or about the year 1801, that 
body united with the general assembly. The two last, viz : 
the Asssociate Church and the Reformed Presbyterian Church 
are under different ecclesiastical jurisdictions. 

1 st. The Presbytery of Nero York. 

1st. The First Presbvterian Church is a stone building, 
which was founded in Wall Street in 1719, enlarged in 1768 
and rebuilt in 1809 It is 68 feet in front by 97 feet square 
and has a handsome spire. The Rev. Mr. William W. 
Phillips is pastor. 

2d. The Brick Meeting, under the pastoral care of the. 
Rev. Gardiner Spring D. D. was erected in Beekman, corn- 
er of Nassau Street in 1797 and has since been ornamented 
by a handsome spire. Its dimensions are 65 by 83—5395 
feet square. 

3d. l»u i ger Street Church is a spacious frame building, 
64 by 86=55 10 feet square was erected in 1797. It has a 
cupola and public clock. The Rev. Thomas McAuley D. D. 
and L. L. D. is pastor. 

4th. Cedar-Street Church, a stone building, between 
William and Nassau-Streets, 66 by 81=5346 feet square was 
erected 1807- Vacant by the death of the late Rev. John B. 
Romeyn D. D. 

5th. Spring-Street Church, a wooden building at the 
corner of Varrick 60 by 80=4300 feet square was erected in 
1810. Pastor Rev. Henry G. Ludlow. 

6th. Orange-Street Church, a wooden building 40 by 
60 — 2400 feet square was erected in 1808. Vacant, since tire 



A LIST OP CHURCHES. l69 

removal of the Rev. Mr. Robert M'Cartee to the Canal 
Street Church. 

7th. Sheriff-Street Church. The congregation under 
the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Elihu W. Baldwin occu~ 
pied this place since the year 1820, when it was built, but find- 
ing it too small for their accommodation, they sold it to a Ro- 
man Catholic Church, who took possession the first of May, 
1 826. They are now erecting a spacious brick building, 63 by 
84=5292 feet square, in Broome, at the corner of Ridge-street, 
which will be finished as speedily as possible. They, at pres- 
ent, worship in one part of the Lord's Day in Broome, between 
Cannon and Lewis Streets, and^in the other, in the Presbyterian 
Church in Allen-Street, of which the Rev. Mr. William 
Gray is pastor. 

8th. Vandewater-Street Church, is a brick building, 60 
by 75=4509 feet; was erected in 1821 , and is under the pastor- 
al care of the Rev. Mr. Thomas Vermyllye. 

9th. Mariner's Church is a brick building in Roosevelt- 
street 5H by 60=3480 feet square, was erected in 1819. Of this 
church the Rev. Mr. John Trlair, who is a member of this 
presbytery, is pastor ; but for reasons, which may be seen here- 
aftei, in the article which closes the account of Churches, it. 
as well as two others, can never be classed under any particu- 
lar denomination. 

10th. Christopher-Street Church is a stone building, 
with a marble front, 52 by 66=3432 feet square ; was erected 
in 1821. Pastor, Rev. Samuel Rowan, D.D. 

11th. The Centre Church, in Broome, nearMott-Street. 
a brick building, 60 by 75=4500, was erected in 1821. The 
Rev. Mr. William Patten is pastor. 

12th. Bowery Church, near Elizabeth-street, a brick build- 

ng, 63 by 80=5040 feet square ; was erected in the year 1822. 

Jt is under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Ward Stafford. 

13th. Allen-Street Church, a frame building, with a 

brick front, 40 by 65=2600 feet square; was finished in 1824. 

Pastor, Rev. Mr. William Gray. 

14th. The Elm-Street, commonly the African Presbyte- 
rian Church,* a brick building, near Canal-Street, 50 by 62 = 
3100 feet square; was built in 1824, and is under the pastoral. 
:are of the Rev. Mr. Samuel E. Cornish. 

15th. Canal-Street Church, corner of Greene-Street. 
a brick building, 63 by 82=5166 feet square ; was finished in 
1825. Pastor, Rev. Mr. Robert M'Cartee. This con- 

The minister and congregation are people of colour. 

P 



1^0 A LIST OF CHURCHES. 

gregation was formed in 1808, and worshipped in the Grange- 
Street Church, till this new building was opened. 

l6th. Laight-Street Church, a brick building at the 
corner of Varick-street, 6l by 85=5185 feet square, under 
the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Samuel H. Cox; was com- 
pleted in the year 1825. The congregation was founded 
in Spring-Street in 1S10, where they continued till this place 
was opened for public worship. 

17th. Bleecker-Street Church, a little to the Eastward 
of Broadway, a neat stone building, was finished this year. 
(1826.) Pastor Rev. Mr. Matthias Brlein. 

2d. The Second Presbytery of New-York. 

1st. A stone building erected in Cedar-Street, between 
Broadway and Nassau-Street, in 1768, in front 54 feet by 65 
deep=3510 feet square. Pastor, the Rev. Mr. J. M'Elroy. 

2d. Pearl-Street Church, near Broadway, 56 by 66— 
3690 feet square, is a stone building, which was erected in 1797- 
Vacant, since the removal of the Rev. William W. Phillips 
to the First Presbyterian Church. 

3d. Murray-Street Church, between Church and Chap- 
el Streets is a spacious stone building, ornamented with a hand- 
some spire and was erected in 1812. Its dimensions are 77 
\>y 92=7034 feet square. The Rev. Mr. William Snodgrass 
is pastor. 

N. B. The following ministers, belonging to the New York 
Presbytery reside in this city ; but have charge of no con- 
gregations ; the Rev. Messieurs James G. Ogilvie and I. S. 
C. FREv,and the Rev. John M Mason D. D. S. T. P. of the 
Second Presbytery of New York is likewise,without charge. 

The following two churches have no connection with either 
of these presbyteries. 

The Reformed Presbyterian Church in Chamber Street, 
opposite the New-York Institution, under the pastoral care of the 
Rev- Alexander M'Leod D. D. was originally a frame 
building and erected in 1801 ; but, in 1818, it was rebuilt and 
enlarged ; a brick building 50 by 70—3500 feet square, being 
erected in its stead. 

Associate Presbyterian Church, a brick building, in'j 
Grand, corner of Mercer-street , 58 by 70=4060 feet square, 
was finished in 1824, and is under the pastoral care of the 
Rev. Mr. Andrew Stark. This congregation worshipped 
in Nassau-street, between Fulton and John-streets, from the 
year 1803, when it was built, till their removal to this new 









A LIST OF CHURCHES. lfl 

place, when they sold it to a Baptist Church, of which the Rev. 
'Mr. Charles G. Sommers is minister. 

Brief Account of the Reformed Dutch Church and its in- 
stitutions. 

The Reformed Dutch Church is the first that was organized 
In America. In 1620 there were members of that Church in. 
New York. In 1626 a church was founded in, or near the 
first Fort erected in that city. The public records of the 
Church in New York, containing the names of Ministers, and 
other Church officers, together with a regular register of bap- 
tisms, marriages, &c. commence with the year 1639, and excep- 
ting the interruption occasioned by the Revolutionary War. 
have been carried down, and kept with great neatness and 
care, to the present day. The Emigrants from Holland were 
the first settlers in the states of New York and New Jersey. 
All the principal inhabitants of those States, then Colonies, 
were of the Dutch Communion, excepting a few from England 
and Scotland, who not understanding the Dutch Language, 
organized Churches of their own. By that pertinacious ad- 
herence to their own Language, which is common to foreigners, 
the Dutch Churches were dismembered of a large portion of 
their people, who preferring the prevailing language of the 
country, left them, and went over to other denominations. — 
The Dutch Churches both of New York and New Jersey were 
originally from Holland; their calls were presented to the clas- 
sis of \msterdam, and they, acting under the authority of the 
Synod of North Holland, selected and sent out their sup- 
plies. This plan was pursued without interruption for up*- 
wards of 130 years, down to the year 1750. It gave rise to 
a foreign jurisdiction, which eventually became offensive, and 
as it was attended with very many and increasing inconvenien- 
cies, many of the churches becameanxious for the establishment 
of an independent judicatory in this country. 

The preliminary measures pursued for the accomplishment 
of this object gave birth to two parties, the one in favour of, and 
the other opposed to the establishment of such Judicatory. 

That division, which took place in 1755, and in which the 
contending parties were nearly equal in learning, number and 
influence, produced the most serious effects. It continued for 
a number of years and sometimes raged with so much violence, 
as to threaten the very existence of the Dutch Church in A- 
merica. As the Friends of Ecclesiastical Independence were 
resolved to maintain their cause, they formed the plan of erect- 
ing a College in the city of New-Brunswick, in New-Jersey, for 



172 A LIST OF CHURCHES. 

the express purpose of preparing young men for the gospel 
ministry. 

They accordingly obtained a charter from the Governor ot 
New Jersey in the year 1770, incorporating a literary institu- 
tion under the name of Queen's College. 

By that decisive step, all further overtures to renew theiv 
former connexion with Holland, or to unite with those 
Churches in America which maintained a subordination to the 
classis of Amsterdam seemed to be entirely precluded and the 
continuance of the separation rendered inevitable. 

The first President of that institution was the Rev. Dr. Har- 
denberg, an American, a man of powerful m;nd, ardent piety, 
indefatigable industry, and greatly blessed in his ministry, who 
died in that office in 1792, universally lamented. 

The College itself after struggling from time to time with 
the most serious difficulties, through want of pecuniary means, 
but still continuing the object of prayer and hope, has recent- 
ly been revived under the most promising auspices. 

On the return from Holland of the Rev Dr. Livingston, in 
1770, and principally through his exertion and influence, cir- 
cular letters were sent by the Consistory of the Church of 
New- York, inviting all the ministers of the Dutch Churches, 
with each an Elder, to meet at New- York for the express pur- 
pose of healing divisions, and forming a plan of union and gene- 
ral pacification. 

This proposition met with a very favourable reception. In 
Oct. 1771, a general meeting of both parties was held, which 
was commenced and closed in a most propitious manner. 

The plan submitted by a committee of that body had three 
objects, viz : 

1. The internal arrangement and government of the 
Churches. 

2. The healing of divisions, and 

3. The conducting a correspondence with the Church of 
Holland. 

It was agreed to transmit their whole procedings to the 
classis of Amsterdam, for the approbation of that body, which 
was accordingly done, and a most friendly answer received, ap- 
proving the plan of union, and offering the most fervent 
prayers for the prosperity of the American Churches. 

Thus peace was restored, and from its restoration commen- 
ced a new and auspicious era. 

At that pacific meeting was formed the plan of a Theolog- 
cal Professorship, the first of the kind ever contemplated in 
America, and resolutions were passed to raise the necessary 
tiinds for its support. 



A LIST OF CHURCHES. lTo 

Whilst negociation with the Church of Holland was pend- 
ing on that subject, and other measures pursued for carrying 
it into effect, the Revolutionary War occurred, which put an 
effectual stop to the further prosecution of this matter until 
the restoration of peace. 

At the 1st convention of the Churches after the close of the 
War, in 1784, the important subject of a Theological Profes- 
sorship was resumed, and the Rev. Dr. John N. Livingston, 
who long before had been designated by the classis of Amster- 
dam, and the University of Utrecht, was unanimously chosen 
their first Professor of Didactic and Polemic Theology. In 
consequence of an overture to the Synod from the Trustees of 
Queens College in New Brunswick in 1810, the Theological 
Institution was removed from New-York to that city. A sec- 
ond Professorship was there instituted and the venerable Dr. 
Livingston presided over its destinies, with great honour to 
himself and advantage to the churches. 

Since the death of Dr. Livingston, by the most prompt, and 
hitherto unexampled efforts in the Dutch Church, stabie pro- 
vision has been completed for the support of the second pro- 
fessorate, and a third Professorship endowed ; so, that the 
whole original plan has been happily carried into effect, in all 
its parts, and is now in full operation. 

To those who may be unacquainted with the doctrines and 
usages of the Dutch Church, it may be proper to state that their 
doctrines are embraced in those views of divine truth, drawn 
from the Holy Oracles which were composed, and adopted in 
the National .Synod of Dordrecht in Holland, in the years 1 6l S 
and 19. 

That synod, composed of the most distinguished dele- 
gates from all parts of Europe, and of almost all denomina- 
tions of the protestant world, and which continued in session 
two years, formed one of the most august bodies of men that 
perhaps ever were convened on such an occasion since the 
days of the apostles. 

These doctrines which have long been published to the 
world, are embodied in the confession of faith and cat- 
echisms of the Reformed Dutch Church in America. They 
substantially comport with the 3[) articles of the Church of 
England, and entirely with the doctrines of the Presbyterian 
Church in these United States, as expressed in their West- 
minister confession of Faith, and larger and shorter cate- 
chisms. « 

The form of government of the Dutch Church is strictly 
presbyterian. Their Churches are principally loGated in the 

P2 



IT 4 A LIST OP CHURCHES. 

states of New-York and New Jersey, with a few in Pennsylva- 
nia. Their public worship has for a long time been conduct- 
ed in the English Language They have eleven flourishing 
Churches in the city of New York, and compose in the aggre- 
gate a large and most respectable section of the American 
Church. 



The professors of the Theological Seminary at New Bruns- 
wick are the following, viz : 

Rev. Phillip Milledoler, D. D. Professor of Didactic and Po- 
lemic Theology. 

Rev. John De Witt, D. D. Professor of Biblical Literal ure. 

James Cannon, D. D. Professor of Ecclesiastical History, 

Church Government and Pastoral Theology. 



The Persons composing the present Faculty of Rutgers Col- 
lege, in New Brunswick, are the following viz : 

Rev. Philip Milledoler D. D. President of ihe College, and 

Professor of Moral Philosophy and the Evidence o( Chisiri- 
anity. 

Rev. John De Witt, D. D. Professor of Belles Letters, Ele- 
ments of Criticism, and Logic. 

James Cannon, D. D. Professor of Metaphysics, and Philo- 
sophy of the Human Mind. 

Rev. W. C. Brownlee, D. D. Professor of Languages, and 

Robert Adrain, L. L. D. Professor of Methematics, Natural 
Philosophy and Astronomy. 

Instruction is also given in the College, on English Gram- 
mar ; ancient and modern Geography, Chemistry, Political 
Economy, History, and Chronology. 



Joseph Nelson, L. L. D. late of the city of New-York, is Rec- 
tor of the Grammar School. 

A list op the Reformed Dutch Churches in this city. 
at the beginning of the present year, 1826. 

1. The South Dutch is a stone building in Garden-street, 
•which was erected in 1693 and rebuilt in 1807. Its dimen- 
sions are 58 by 66=3808 square feet The Rev. James 
Matthews D. D. is pastor. 

2. The Church at Harleem was built of wood. It is not as- 
certained, at what time it was founded $ but it is generally be- 



A LIST OF CHURCHES. 1JC/ 

iieved to have been soon after the settlement of this city by 
the Dutch. Its dimensions were 30 by 57=1710 feet square. 
The Rev. Mr. Cornelius C. Vermeule is pastor. In the 
year 1825, a new brick building 50 by 65=3250 feet square, 
was erected in its stead. It is ornamented with a handsome 
Spire. 

3. Middle Dutch in Nassau, between Liberty and Cedar 
Streets, containing 7500 square feet, built in 1729, and 

4. North Dutch in William, between Fulton and Amir 
streets, being 70 by 100=7000 square feet, erected in 1769, 
are stone buildings and collegiate churches, under the pastoral 
charge of Rev. Gerardus A. Kuypers, D. D. and John Knox, 
D. D. On the cupola of the former of these churches, there 
is a public clock. 

5. The ;Church in Herring-street, Greenwich village, was 
built of wood in 1782 and enlarged in 1807- It contains 2232 
feet square, and has a spire and public clock. The congrega- 
tion having of late greatly increased, the present building was 
found too small for their accommodation. The foundation of 
a new stone church to be 64 by 84=5376 feet square was, 
therefore, laid last autumn, and the church will be completed 
during the present year. The pastor is the Rev. J\lr. Nicho- 
las I. Marselus. 

6. North West Church, in Franklin-street, of which the 
Rev. Mr. George Dubois is pastor, was erected in 1808. It 
is a stone building 60 by 80 and contains 480(J square feet. 

7. The Church at Harsenville, of which the Rev. Dr. 
Alexander Gunn is pastor, is likewise, a stone building, 5? 
by 72 containing 4104 square feet. It was erected in 1814. 

8. The Market-Street Church is a stone building, 67 by 
81 and contains 5427 square feet. It was, built in 1819.— 
Pastor, Rev. William M'Murray, D. D. 

8. German Reformed Church is a brick building, 45 by 
60=2700 square feet, and was erected in Forsyth-street in. 
1822. Divine service is performed in the German and Eng- 
lish languages alternately. The Rev. Mr. Charles Kxouse 
is pastor. 

10. The Church in Broome, at the corner of Greene-street, 
■under the pastoral charge of the Rev. Jacob Broadhead, D. D, 
was opened in 1824. It is a brick building 80 by 6Q=4800 
square feet. 

11. The Church in Greene, corner of Houston-street, is a 
marble building, and was completed towards the end of the last 
year, 1825. It is 56 feet in front by 1[b feet in depth =4200 
square feet. The Rev. Mr. Eli Baldwin is pastor. 



1/6 a list of churches. 

12. First Protestant Reformed Dutch Church 01 
the people of colour.* This congregation is organized 
according to law, and is acknowledged by the other Reformed 
Dutch Churches. Last autumn the foundation of a brick 
building for their place of worship was laid in Wooster, near 
Canal-street. They hold their meetings, at present, in a 
school-room in Duane-street. Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Mark 
Jordan. 

Within the last four years, ten or twelve ministers have se- 
ceded from this connexion and assumed to themselves thf 
name of 

The True Reformerd Dutch Church. 
They profess to adhere rigidly to the articles of the synod 
of Dortrecht. Of these there is one congregation in this city 
under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. Cornelius T. Dema- 
rest. Their church is a brick building 50 by 65=3250 feet 
square. It is situate in King-street. 

Protestant Episcopal Churches. 

Soon after the surrender of the colony of New York by the 
Dutch in l664,« divine service was regularly performed, agree- 
ably to the ritual of the Church of England, in a chapel with- 
in the Fort and this was the first Protestant Episcopal Church 
in this city : but from the constant arrival of episcopalians 
from Great Britian as well as from Ireland, it was soon found 
to be too small for their accommodation. In the year 1696, 
a new and spacious church was, therefore, erected : but the 
former continued to be used for religious worship till 1741, 
when it was consumed by fire, at the time of the Negro Plot, 
as it was called. 

The following is a correct list of the Protestant Episcopal 
churches now in this city, with the dates, at which they were 
respectively built, the names of their rectors, &c. 

1st. Trinity Church was built in 1 696 in Broadway, be- 
tween Rector and Thames-Streets. It was enlarged in 1737? 
burnt down in 1776. and rebuilt in 1788. It is now a stately 
edifice in the Gothic style, being ornamented with an elegant 
spire and has a fine chime of bells. It is 7 A feet in (i ont by 
1.01 deep=7474 square feet. 

2d. St. Paul's in Broadway, between Fulton and Vesey 
Streets, is a handsome stone building, with a fine spire and 

* The minister as well as the congregation are people of colour. 



A LIST OF CHURCHES. 17"J 

clock. It was built in 1766, being 72 by 113— S136 square, 
leet ; and 

3d. St. John's in Varick-street, which is likewise a hand- 
some as well as a spacious stone building, ornamented with a 
spire and clock, being 73 by 111=8103 feet square. In front 
of this building is a large open space called Hudson's square. 
It stands in as pleasant a situation as any church in the 
city and was built in 1807* 

Of the above three, Trinity is the parish church, and St. 
Paul's and St. John's chapels. The Right Lleverend John 
H. Hobart, D. D. is rector, and the Rev. Messieurs Wm. 
Berrian, Be-jamin F. Onderdonk. and John F. Scrqsder 
are assistant ministers. 

4th. St. George's in Beekman, corner of Cliff-street, 
was built in 1759, destroyed by fire in 1814, rebuilt in 
1816. It is an elegant and spacious stone building, being 72 
by 104 feet, and containing 7488 square feet. It is decorated 
with a cupola and has a public clock. The Rev. Jame.^ 
Milnor, D. D. is rector. 

5th. Christ Church, Ann-Street, 6 1 feet in front by 80 
in depth=4880 square feet, is a stone building, and was 
ereciedin 1794. The Rev. Mr. John Sellon Rector. 

6th. Du St. Esprit. The building now known by that 
name, was erected in Pine, near Nassau-Street in 1704, by some 
French protestants, who founded their Church upon the prin- 
ciples and model of that in Geneva. During the revolu- 
tionary war, the interior was entirely destroyed. In the year 
1794, it underwent a thorough repair; and in 1803, the mem- 
bers as well as their clergyman joined the Protestant Episco- 
pal Church It was then consecrated in the usual manner, by 
the name of the Church Du St. Esprit. It is a stone build- 
ing 50 by 70=3500 feet square. Of this church, the Rev, 
Henri L. P. Peneveyre is rector. Divine service is per- 
formed here in the French language. 

7th. St. Mark's in Stuy vesant-Street, near the Bowery, is a 
stone building, and was erected in 1799- It is 66 feet in 
breadth by 100 in depth=6600 square feet. The Rev. Mr. 
William Creighton is rector. 

8th. Zion Church, a stone building, 64 by 80, and con- 
taining 5120 feet square, was erected, at the corner of Mott and 
Cross Streets in 1801, burnt in 1815, and rebuilt in 1817- — 
The Rev. Mr. Thomas Brientnall is rector. This church 
was built by a society of Lutherans and continued in that con- 
nexion till 1810, when it was received into the communion of 
the Protestant Episcopal Church. 



1^8 A LIST OP CHURCHES. 

9th. St. Stephens is a stone building, 54 feet in front by 
75 in depth, and containing 4050 square feet. It is situate in 
Chrystie, corner of Broome-Street, and was built in 1805. — 
The Rev. Henry I. Peltus D. D. is rector. 

10th. St. Michael's ,a small wooden building, 36 by 53 
—1908 square feet, was erected at Bloomingdale in 1 807. — 
The Rev. Mr. William Richmond is rector. 

11th. Grace Church is a spacious brick building erect- 
ed in Broadway, corner of Rector-Street, in 1808. It is 63 
feet in breadth by 113 in length=:7liy feet square. The 
Rev. Jonathan M. Wainwright, D. D. is rector. 

12th. St. James's, a frame building, erected in Hamilton 
Square, in 1810, is 70 feet long by 40 broad— 2 800 square feet. 
The Rector is the Rev. Mr. William Richmond. 

13th. *St. Philip's, in Collect-Street, between Leonard 
and Anthony-Streets, was built in 1819? burnt in 1821, and re- 
built in 1822. it is a neat brick building, being 50 by 60 
and containing 3000 square feet. The Rev. Mr. Peter Wil- 
liams is rector. 

14th. St. Luke's is a brick building, and was erected in 
Hudson, near Hamersley-street, in 1822. It is in front 48 feet 
by 66 deep=3l68 feet square. The Rev. George Uppold. 
D. D. is rector. 

15th. Christ Church, in Anthony-Street, near Broad- 
way, is a stone building, and was erected in 1823. Its dimen- 
sions are 64 by 90-=5760 feet square. This is the same con- 
gregation, which was founded in Ann-Street, in 1794. The 
Rev. Thomas Lyell, D. D. is rector, and the Rev. Mr. Man- 
ton Eastburn assistant minister. 

16th. All Saints, is a small wooden building, which was 
erected in Grand-Street, at the head of Division-Street, in 
1824. It is intended to answer a temporary purpose; and 
such arrangements have been made as to warrant the belief, 
that a large and more suitable place of worship will be reared 
as speedily as possible. The Rev. Mr. William A. Clark 
is rector. 

17th. St. Thomas', is an elegant and stately edifice, built 
in the Gothic style, in Broadway, at the corner of Houston- 
Street. It is just finished and was consecrated 23d February, 
1826. The dimensions of this building are 62 by 113=7006 
eet square. The Rev. Mr. Cornelius R. Dupfie is rector. 

St. Mary's, a wooden building, nearly finished at Manhat- 
tenville in 1826. Vacant. 

The minister and congregation of this church are people of colour. 



■\ 



A LIST OF CHURCHES. iTO 

Bes ides the clergymen above mentioned, the following rev- 
erend gentlemen, who have the pastoral charge of no congre- 
gation reside in this city and county, viz: Rev. Drs. Wm. Har- 
ris, President, and John M'Vickar, Professor of Moral Philos- 
osophy, Columbia College ; the Rev. Drs. Samuel H. Tur- 
ner and Bird Wilson, Professors of the General Theological 
Seminary ; the Rev. Dr. Edmund D. Barry, Principal of an 
Academy ; and the Rev. Messrs. William Hammell, and 
Henry J. Whitehouse. 

GeneralTheological Seminary of the Protestant 
Episcopal Church in the United States. 

The building designed for this institution is now erecting 
on the ninth A venue on an ample lot of gronnd, which compri- 
ses a whole square, the munificent donation of Clement C. 
Moore, Esq. This seminary was originally established by 
the General Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church 
in the United States, in the year 1817 and located in this city. 
At the General Convention in 1820, its organization was 
changed to New Haven. At a special General Convention 
held in 1821, it was again removed to this city and under still 
further improved organization, was united with the Theolo- 
gical Seminary of this diocese, which had been established in 
1820. The trustees are the bishops of the Protestant Epis- 
copal Church in the United States, and clergymen and laymen 
of the said Church chosen by each diocese in proportion to its 
number of clergymen and its contributions to the Seminary. — 
On the last removal of the Seminary to this city, it came into 
the possession of the munificentle^acy of about $70,000, left by 
the late Jacob Sherred, Esq. of this city. The lectures are, 
at present delivered and the business of the Seminary carried 
on in a large brick building in Varick-Street, near St. John's 
Church, a part of which is likewise, occupied as a charitv 
school for said church. 

The professors are the Ricrht Rev. John Henry IIobart, 
D. D. Professor of Pastoral Theology and Pulpit Eloquence. 

The Rev. Samuel H. Turner, D. D. Professor of Biblical 
Learning. 

The Bev. Bird Wilson, D. D. Professor of Systematic Di- 
vinity. 

The Rev. Benjamin F. Onderdonk, A. M. Professor of the 
nature, ministry and polity of the church, and 

Clement, C. Moore A. M. Professor of Oriental anil 
Greek Literature. 

Mr. William C. Whittingham is the librarian. 



[80 a list op churches. 

Catholic Churches. 

Till the close of the revolutionary war, clergymen of this 
denomination were prevented, under severe penalties, from of- 
ficiating in the province (now the state of New York ;) but no 
sooner was our independence fully acknowledged, than every 
man was left at liberty, to worship his creator agreeably to the 
dictates of his own conscience. In the year 1784 and 1785, 
our Roman Catholic brethren in this city, assembled in such 
places as they could hire, from time to time, forthe purpose of 
celebrating divine worship, in the manner prescribed by their 
church; but in 1786, by their own exertions and the liberal 
contributions of their fellow citizens of different persuasions, 
they erected their first place of worship. They have now 
three churches. 

1st. St. Peter's, built of brick, at the corner of Barclay 
and Church Streets, in the year 1786,being48 by81=3888 feet 
square. The very Rev. Mr. John Power, vicar general of the 
diocess, is rector and the Rev. Mr. Peter Malone assistant. 
2d. St. Patrick's Cathedral a spacious stone building, 
being the largest place of worship in this city, was erected in 
1815, at the corner of Mott and Prince-Streets, 80 by 120— 
9600 feet square. The Rev. Messieurs Thomas Levin and 
William Taylor are joint rectors. These two churches 
may in some measure, be considered collegiate, as the minis- 
ters respectively appointed by each, officiate alternatly in both. 
3d, A frame building with a brick front in Sheriff-Street, 
45 by 60=2700 feet square. This was sold by the Presbyte- 
rian Church, under the pastoral care of the Rev. Elihu W. 
Baldwin, in April, 1 826, and taken possession of by the Ro- 
man Catholics, on the 1st May following. It has not as yet 
been consecrated, no name has been assigned to it; nor has 
any pastor been appointed ; but all these things will certainly 
be done in a short time, the othert two churches being filled to 
overflowing, fl^p 3 For the location of Mr. Baldwin's con- 
gregation, sec Presbyterian Churches, page 169. 

Unitarian Churches. 

Of these there are two in this city, viz : 1st. a stone build- 
ing with a marble front erected in Chamber, between Church 
and Chapel-Streets, in 1820. It is 45 feet in front, by 60 in 
depthr=2700 feet square. The Rev. Mr. William Ware is 
pastor. 

A second place of worship is now erecting in Prince, be- 
tween Green and Mercer-Streets. It will be a spacious brick 
building and so great progress has been made in the work, that 
it will no doubt be finished during the present summer. 



a list of churches. ' k l 

Universal Churches. 

Of these we have two, viz. 1st. a square brick building, 67 b) 
07=4489 feet square, which was erected at the corner of Duane 
and Augustus Streets in the year 1818. This congregation, 
however, was organized in 1802. Pa tor, the Rev. Mr. Ed- 
ward Mitchell. 

2d. This is likewise a brick building, 60 by 70=4200 feet 
square, ami was erected in Prince-street, a little below St. 
Patrick's Cathedral, in 1824. It is under the pastoral care oi 
the Rev. Mr. Nehemiah Dodge. 



besides the above, we have two churches which cannot, 
with propriety, be classed under any particular denomination. 
These are the Church in the State Prison, 34 by 54— 1S3G feet 
square, and that in the Alms House at Bellevue, 50 by 66= 
300 feet square. These are stone buildings. The pulpit 
in the State Prison is filled by clergymen of all denominations, 
except on the first Sabbath, in every month, when th. n Rev. 
.Mr. John Stanford, who is chaplain of this as well as of the 
other criminal and most of the eleemosynary houses in the 
city, officiates. This laborious pastor preaches, once in the 
City Hospital, twice in the Church at the Alms House, and 
once in the Penitentiary on every Lord's Day, except on the 
first in every month, when ministers of the Methodist con- 
nexion perform divine service ; but, at all times, respecta- 
ble clergymen of any denomination are allowed to exercise their 
sacred functions in both these houses of worship. I>jr. Stan- 
ford likewise preaches five or six times throughout the week. 

The Mariner's Church has been already noticed under the 
Presbyterian Churches, though, perhaps, with little propriety, 
as it has no other claim to be ranked in that respectable body 
than that (heir pastor, the Rev. Mr. John Truair, is a membei 
of" The Presbytery of New York." That there are many of 
the regular hearers attached to the Presbyterian system is 
true. Bat let it ever be remembered, that this church was 
erected for the accommodation of sailors, by th^ liberality of 
Christians of different denominations. The institution is 
therefore founded on the broad basis of Christianity, without 
reference to any particular sect or party, and it will "o doubt 
continue, as it is at present, open to pious ministers of all de- 
nominations. Several societies have lately been organized for 
ameliorating the situation of mariners, of which due notice will 
be taken hereafter. 



Q 



182 



PUBLIC MARKETS. 



RECAPITULATION. 



Denominations. 

Baptists - 

Friends - 

Hebrews - 
Independents 
Lutherans - 

Methodist, Episcopal 

Society 

African 
Moravians - 

New Jerusalem 
Presbyterians - 
Protestant Episcopal 
Reformed Dutch 
Roman Catholics - 
Unitarians - 

Universalists - 
Of no particular denomination 



No. of 


No. oi' 


Churches. 


Ministers; 


14 


14 


3 


13 


1 


1 


4 


3 


2 


2 


7 


11 


3 


4 


3 


7 


1 


1 


1 


1 


22 


25 


18 


27 


13 


13 


3 


4 


2 


2 


2 


2 


2 


2 


101 


132 



CHAPTER IV. 

Public Markets. 
Public markets for the sale of provisions are held, in this 
city, on every day of the week, except Sunday ; and on that 
day, fish or milk may be sold before nine o'clock in the morn- 
ning, and milk after five in the afternoon. 

Till about 1 6 or 18 years ago, the Mayor was clerk of the 
market ex 'fficio, and appointed so many persons deputy clerks 
as he thought proper ; but now, as the whole emoluments ari- 
sing from the markets are vested in the Common Council, the}' 
have been authorised by an act of the legislature to appoint 
these officer^. 

Each deputy clerk, previous to his entering on the duties 
of his office, must become bound with sufficient surety in the 
penal sum of$l000 ; and also take an oath or affirmation, that 

he will faithfully execute the office of deputy clerk of the 

market to which he had been appointed. 

It is their duty to cause all the laws of the corporation and 
regulations prescribed by the market committee, respecting 
the markets, to be duly enforced. 

Beef, pork, veal, mutton and lamb, are cut up and sold in 



PUBLIC MARKETS. 183 

the public market by the joint, or in pieces, by the licensed 
butchers only, their agents or servants. Each of these must 
sell at his own siail, and conclude his sales by one o'clock in 
the afternoon, between 1st May and 1st November and, by two 
between first November and the first May. Butchers are li- 
censed by the Common Council. 

To prevent forestalling, no articles shall be bought to sell 
again, in any market or other part of the city, before 12 
o'clock at noon, except flour and meal which must not be 
bought to be sold again until 4 afternoon. Hucksters in the 
markets are restricted to the sale of vegetable with the excep- 
tion of fruits. No poultry, eggs or butter, shall be sold in the 
public markets, or streets or cellars contiguous thereto by any 
person, except by him or her on whose farm such articles shall 
have been raised, or by some person, who shall have been in 
the country and there purchased them from the farmer, under 
the penalty of ten dollars. Nor shall any person sell fresh 
fish in any of the said markets or streets contiguous thereto, 
except fishermen and persons who shall have purchased the 
fish at the fishing place from fishermen, under the like penalty. 

All butter for sal' 1 in the public markets shall be sold by 
weight ; if in rolls, each roll shall contain one or more pounds 
without any fraction of a pound ; and if in tubs, pails or firkins, 
other than roll butter, the same shall be sold by the tub, pail 
or firkin and by no less quantity ; and no person shall sell but- 
ter in any vessel except in such as hath the weight marked 
thereon. If butter or any oth r article sold by weight or meas- 
ure shall be found deficient in weight or measure, the person 
offering the same for sale shall forfeit the sum of ten dol- 
lars ; and for offering to sell unwholesome or stale provi- 
sions, &c. the penalty is $25 ; but besides the payment of the 
aforesaid penalties, the articles, in both cases, are eized by 
the clerk of the market, in which such offence shall have been 
committed, and forfeited to the use of the commissioners of the 
Alms house and Bridewell for the relief and benefit of the poor 
of the city. 

All weights, measures or beams, used within the limits of any 
publicm arket, shall be sealed under the penalty of fifty dol- 
lars ; and the deputy clerks shall, at least once in every week, 
inspect all weights, measures and beams used in their respec- 
tive markets, &c. and report to the attorney of the board for 
prosecution all persons whom they may find offending in the 
premises. And it is also the duty of the said deputy clerks to 
weigh the butter, which shall be exposed for sale in the public 
markets, at least once in each week. Thev must also attend 



.184 PUBLIC MARKETS. 

constantly in their respective markets, from sunrise to thr 
dose of the market, in order that the citizens may have it in 
iheir power to -??ake known their complaints and to obtain re- 
dress. 

The market committee is invested with the entire regulation 
I control o( the public markets ; and none but licensed 
• hers, -holding stalls in the public markets and those who 
have rented stands from the corporation, shall occupy any part 
of the public markets or market places without having first ob- 
tained a permit in writing, for that purpose, from the said com- 
mittee, and having the same registered with the deputy clerk 
of such market, under the penalty of $23. But country peo- 
ple resorting to the public markets for the sale of their own 
provisions, are exempt from this regulation. The market 
committee are, likewise, empowered to lease at auction or oth- 
erwise, for one or more years, all the butcher's stalls and so 
many of the stands for fishermen, country people and huxters. 
as they may have suitable applications for, the rent for which, 
when so leased, is to be paid quarterly in advance. 

In case the several stalls or stands marked out and numbered 
under the direction of the market committee, within the public, 
markets shall not be rented, the clerk of the market may permit 
the same to be occupied by persons bringing articles of pro- 
vision to market for sale, at such daily payment for the same, 
as the market committee may, from time to time, determine. 
The following are the fees, which are now daily collected. 

For every stand for hucksters, under cover 12 1-2 cents, and 
if not under cover, 6 cents. 

For every stand for a fisherman, or for a person bringing 
produce from the country, 6 cents. 

For every stand occupied by persons for selling meat (ex- 
cept country people and butchers at their licensed stalls) two 
dollars per day. 

Our public markets are abundantly supplied with almost 
every thing in its season, which the land and water affords. — 
In an enumeration about twenty years ago, by several intelli- 
gent gentlemen, the species of wild quadrupeds, fit for human 
food, brought to this city in the course of the year were in nam 
ber 8 ; of amphibious creatures 5; of shell fish 14; of birds 51 ; 
and of fishes 62. Their names follow. Wild quadrupeds. — 
Bear, deer, raccoon, ground hog, opposum, squirrel, rabbit, 
and hare. Amphibious, green turtle, hawks bill, loggerhead, 
snapper, and terrapin. Sh?ll Fish, oyster, lobster, prawn, 
crab, sea-crab, cray-fish, shrimp, clam, sea-clam, soft clam, 
scollop, grey muscle, black muscle and perri winkle. Birds, 
Wild-goose, brant, black-duck, grey-duck, canvas back-duck. 



PUBLIC MARKETS. 185 

wood-duck, widgeon, teal, broad-bill-duck, dipper, shell-drake, 
old wife, coote, hell-diver, whistling-diver, red-head, loon, cor- 
morant, pilestart, sheerwater, curie w, merlin, willet, wood-cock. 
English-snipe, grey-snipe yellow-legged-snipe, robin-snipe, do- 
vertee, small-sand-snip^, green-plover, grey-plover, kildare, 
wild turkey, heath-hen, partridge, quail, meadow-hen, wild pi- 
geon, turtle-dove, lark, robin, large-grey-snow-bird, small-blue- 
snow-bird, blue-jay, yellow tail, clape, black bird, woodpecker, 
blue-crane and white-crane. Fishes. Salmon, codfish, black- 
fish, streaked-bass, sea-bass, sheepshead, mackerel, spanish- 
mackerel, horse-mackerel, trout, pike, sunfish, sucker, chub, 
roach, shiner, white-perch, yellow-perch, black-perch, stur- 
geon, haddock, pollock, hake, shad, herring, sardine, sprat, 
man-haden, weak-fish, smelt, mullet, bonetto, king-fish, silver- 
fish, porgey, ship-jack, angel-fish, grunts, tusk, red-drum, 
black-drum, sheep-head-drum, dog-fish, killi-fish, bergall, 
tom-cod, red-gurnard, grey-gurnard, .pesnngs, gar-fish, frost- 
fish, blow-fish, tojad-fish, halibut, flounder, sole, plaice, skait, 
stingray, common-eej, conger-eel anr lampray. 

Here it may be observed that, as upwards of twenty years have 
elapsed since the preceding enumeration was taken, the addi* 
tion of several important articles may have been made to it 
since that period. Much of the beef sold in our market has 
been heretofore brought from Pennsylvania; but as our stu- 
pendous canal has just been completed, so as to unite the 
waters of lake Erie with the ocean, there Is no doubt, that not 
only beef; but pork, mutton, venison, buds and even fishes of 
various kinds, perhaps, at present unknown to us, may, in a 
very short time, be sent here from many places in the Western 
country, in consequence of which our markets will be more 
abundantly supplied than at present, though in this respect, we 
have not the least reason to complain, and the price of provis- 
ions, in various articles be considerably reduced. 

Of Public Markets we have now eleven, viz : The Fulton, 
Washington, Catharine, Franklin, Duane. Gouver- 
neur, Centre, Essex, Grand-Street, Spring-Street and 
Greenwich Markets. 

Fulton Market. 

This spacious market, which is composed of an extensive set 

of brick buildings, united together in a centre, and four others, 

running from the centre to the East river, was opened in 

1822, when the old Fly Market* was torn down, and is pro- 

* This uncouth name must have led a stranger to imagine, that this 
market swarmed with flies; but the appellation arose from a very dif- 

Q2 



186 PUBLIC MARKETS. 

bably as well calculated for the purpose, for which it was in- 
tended, as any on this side of the Atlantic or even in Europe. 
It is so called in honor of that wonderful man, to whom we are 
indebted for the introduction of steam boats, and is situate on 
the East river, on the North side of Fulton-Street. 

in every one of our markets, there may generally be found 
abundance of such provisions as are suitable to be placed 
on what may be called a comfortable table : but if one be desi- 
rous of getting a great variety of those dainties and luxuries, 
which constitute an essential part of the happiness of the epi- 
cure, let him go to this market, and there he may probably find 
as great a variety and abundance of " the good things of this 
life" as is to foe met with in any part of the world. 

II. Washington Market. 
This market was opened in the year 1813 onthe^cite of the 
Hudson Market, which had for many years, been known by 
the whimsical name of the Bare Market. It is situate on the 
North side of Fulton-street, between Washington-street and the 
East river and between Fulton and Vesey-streets. The appel- 
ation of Bare as applied to it, ;s thus accounted for. A con- 
siderable part of the houses, on that side of the city had been con- 
sumed by the great fire, -vhich happened 21st September, 1776. 
(Seepage 100.) Soon after its termination, a market was fixed 
there for the accommodation of the citizens, who were erecting 
new houses, on the ruins of those which had been destroyed. In 
the progress of impro- ement, it happened, that the market- 
house was finished long before the streets were rebuilt or the 
generality of the inhabitants re-establ'shed. As there were for 
a considerable time, few purchasers, so it was seldom that a 
person, who had provisions to sell, would lose his time by ex- 
posing them there. About the year 17&8,.therefore, there was 
a good market house, in which little, if any provisions w re 
bought or sold. This circumstance led the citizens, to distin- 
guish it by the name of the Bare Market. But about seven 
years after the evacuation, business began to be very brisk, 
houses were erected in great numbers along the North River, 
and the Hudson Market was so well frequented, that the Cor- 

ferent cause. That part of the city to the south eastward of Pearl- 
Street was originally a salt mpadow, with a creek running through it. 
from Maiden-lane to the East river, forming such a disposition of land 
and water as was called, by the Dutch, Vlaie, i. e. a valley, meadow 
or wet piece of ground. When a market was held there first, it was 
therefore called The Vlaie Market, i. e. The Valley or Meadovy 
market, from which came the corruption of Fly Market." 



PUBLIC MARKETS. 187 

poration deemed it expedient to direct the building of The 
Washington Market. 

This is a spacions and handsome building. That part of it, 
which fronts on Washington-street, with the wings on Fulton 
and Vesey-Streets, is built of brick and exclusively appropria- 
ted to the use of licensed butchers. At vhe ends of the wings 
and parallel to the front part, there is a wooden building, for 
the accommodation of country people. Below this and close 
to the Hudson river stands the fish market, which is, likewise 
built of wood. In point of abundance and variety of provis- 
ions, this market is fully equal to the Fulton. 

III. Catharine Market. 

This market was built in the year 1 804 and is situate in Cath- 
urine-slreet, between Cherry-street and the East river. That 
part of it which lies between Water and South Streets was re- 
built last autumn. The upper part between Cherry and Water 
Streets is exclusively appropriated to butchers, the lower to 
butchers and country people. The whole is built of brick and 
is well supplied with all kinds of provisions. On the East 
river and 'selow the above market is a wooden building, which 
was erected last autumn, for the use of fishermen. 

IV. Franklin Market. 
This a small market situate at the head of Old Slip and was 
erected in the year 1822. It is built of brick and is very con- 
venient for the citizens of the first ward, many of whom might 
find it difficult to go to the Fulton or Washington Markets for 
their daily supply of provisions. Very good butcher's meat is 
to be found in this market, and there is in general, a tolerable 
supply of poultry, fish and vegetables. 

V. Duane Market. 
This market runs from Greenwich-street, through the low- 
er end of Duane-street, to the East river. It is a small 
wooden building and was erected in the year 1807. Here 
may be found an abundance of vegetables and fish and some- 
times poultry. 

VI. Centre Market. 
Fronts on Grand-street and has two wings extending to- 
waids Spring-street. It is built of brick and lies between 
Mott and Orange-streets and was erected in the year 1817. 
Abundance of vegetables, and in general, fish and fowl may be 
had in this market. 



188 PUBLIC PRISONS. 

VII. Essex Market. 
This is a brick building and was erected in the year 1823. — 
It stands on Grand-street, between Ludlow and Essex Streets, 
from which last it takes its name. It is well supplied with 
vegetables and often with fish. 

VII. Grand-Street Market. 
This small maket is situate on the East river at the end of 
Grand-street, and was built of wood in the year 1813. Here 
are to be found butcher's meat, plenty of vegetables, and some- 
times fish. 

IX. Gouverneur-Strret Market. 
This is the smallest in the city. It was built of wood in the 
year 1813, and contains only two or three butcher's stalls. 

X. Spring-Street Market. 
This market was built of brick in the year 1819, and stands 
in the lower end of Spring-street, between Greenwich-street and 
the Hudson river. The upper part is exclusively occupied by 
licensed butchers, and the lower by people with country pro- 
duce and fishermen. It is, in general, pretty well supplied 
with different kinds of provisions. 

XL Greenwich Market. 
This is a small market built of brick and stands in Chris- 
topher-street, near the State Prison. It was erected in the 
year 1813 for the accommodation of the inhabitants of Green- 
wich village. Besides butcher's meat and vegetables, fish 
may be generally had, and sometimes poultry. 

The revenue arising to the city from these markets is con- 
siderable. Thus in the year 1825, there was collected. 
For Market rents $21,391,13 

do. fees 13,935,48=$35, 326,6l 

In the year 1826. 
For Market rents $26,215,53 

do. fees 15,806,55=42,022,08. 

Being an increase of 6,695,47 during the last year. 



CHAPTER V. 

Public Prisons. 
Of these we have five in this city, one for debtor's called The 
Debtor's Apartment, and 4 for criminals and vagrants, viz : 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 189 

; Bridewell, die Penitentiary, the State Prison, and 
the House op Refuge. 

The Dketor's Apartment, is a square stone building of 
two stories high, in an airy and healthy situation, in the Park, 
a little from tiie £ast end of the City Hall and neor Chatham- 
street. It is exclusively appropriated to the confinement of 
debtors ; but has now very few tenants, as I have been inform- 
ed by Oliver Lowndes ,Esq. our present high sheriff, that the 
Dumber ol persons in dose confinement is, in general, between 
twelve and twenty. Hence though the official report of pris- 
oners for debt, on the 1st of January last, amounted to 173 
men (for by the laws of our state no woman can be impris- 
oned on a civil action) not more than one tenth part oi them,, 
were locked up in jail and the others, in consequence oi their 
friends having become bail, were enjoying the jail liberties, 
which now extend through the whole city and country. 

Before I enter on a description of our four criminal prisons, 
it may not be improper to give a brief view of the punishment 
annexed to different crimes and of the places of confinement, 
to which criminals of different descriptions are sent. Va- 
grants are confined in Bridewell till they can be convenien : / 
sent to the Penitentiary,* as also criminals of every descrip- 
tion from the murderer and highway robber to the thief wl 
has pilfered a faw shillings, till they are discharged by due 
course of law, or convicted by the court of the crimes ailed 
ed against them, after which they are immediate y conducted 
by the constables or marshals to their respective places of de 
tination. 

Persons convicted of petit larceny,/, e. of stealing goods, & 
the value of which does not exceed $25 j found guilty of frat. ds, 
misdemeanours, violent assaults and battery, keeping disorder!;, 
houses and other minor offences, are sent to the Penitentiary. 
Criminals of this description are confined there at hard laboui 
any term not shorter than one month nor longer than three 
years, as to the judges may appear proper, taking into consid- 
eration the nature of the case and the circumstances attending 
it. But if a crimin .1 should be convicted at the same coun, on 
two or more indictments, for any of those crimes now men- 
tioned, he will receive a sentence on each ; so tha after the ex 
piration of the term, for w' ich he was to have been confined 
for the first offence, he immediately enters on his imprison- 
ment for the second, &c. Vagrants are committed to the Pen- 
itentiary by the police justices to he employed there at hard 
labour, for any time not exceeding six months ; and may b^ 

Young Vagrants arc often sent to the House or Reki'g*. 



190 PUBLIC PRISONS. 

liberated on a respectable person becoming surety for their 
good behaviour, or that they will leave the city and county : 
but those condemned by the court can only be discharged by 
a pardon from his Excellency the Governor, which is by no 
means, easy to be obtained. 

No person can be confined in the State prison for a less 
term than three years and one day, and the punishment ex- 
tends from three years and one day to 21 years, according to 
the crimes of which they have been severally found guilty ; but 
the duration of the confinement is, in general positively pre- 
scribed by law, in consequence of which as little is left to the 
discretion of the judges as possible. For the crimes of high' 
way robbery, burglary, forgery, counterfeiting and rape. 
criminals are confined, during life, and for all other crimes of 
a higher grade than those, which subject culprits to the Peni- 
tentiary, except the few, which are capital, they are sentenced 
to the State Prison from three years and a day to twenty one 
years. In addition to the confinement at hard labour for a 
certain number of years, convicts, whose crimes are attended 
with circumstances of a very aggravated nature, may be con- 
demned to solitary confinement for such a number of months 
as to the judges, before whom they have been convicted, may 
appear proper. There is one case, which is not, perhaps, 
generally known, viz : that a criminal may under certain cir- 
cumstances, be sent to the State Prison for pettit larceny. — 
It is this, (f after undergoing his regular term of punishment 
in the penitentiary for petit larceny, he should afterwards be 
found guilty of a similar offence, the law considers it as grand 
larceny and requires, that the offender, be sent to the State 
Prison and not to the Penitentiary for the same. 

There are few countries in the world, in which capital 
punishments are so seldom inflicted as in the state of New- 
York, where murder and arson are the only crimes, which 
subject the offender to a shameful death. It is, indeed, true, 
that persons guilty of piracy, treason and mail robbery, finish 
their wretched lives on the gallows ; but these crimes are cog- 
nizable in the courts of the United States an not in the in- 
dividual state, in which they may have been committed, and 
as the depredations of pirates are, in general, on the high seas, 
it is obvious, that they can only be punished by the general 
government. 

It may now be expected, that I should notice the requisites 
necessary to render a young person a proper object, for 
the House of Kefuge, but as this is a new and as I believe, 
by far the most promising institution ever established in our 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 191 

city or indeed, in the United States, for the reformation of Ju- 
venile delinquents, a more particular account of its rise, pro- 
gress, inmates and of the beneficial effects, which have already 
resulted from it, will be found towards the close of this chap- 
ter. 

The City Prison and Bridewell is a stone building sit- 
uate in the Park, near Broadway, and a few yards West of the 
City Hall. Although the inmates of this Prison are only con- 
fined in it, for a short time, it is greatly to be wished, that of- 
fenders of different degrees of guilt should be kept as much 
apart as possible. To place the old and hardened villain, 
in the apartment with the young and inexperienced offender ; 
the aged and crafty felon in the same room, with the boy, 
who has committed some trifling depredations is, in fact, 
erecting a school for guilt, and breaking down all wholesome 
barriers of distinction. But though this is a serious evil, it is 
not in the power of Mr. George B. Thorpe, the present wor- 
thy keeper, to adopt any mode, by which t can be remedied. 
He has only a few rooms and the number cannot be increased, 
the building being by far too small This difficulty howev- 
er, will in all probability, be soon obviated ; as the Common 
Council have just purchased the State Prison, of which they 
will take possession as soon as the new one shall be finished 
in West Chester : and it is highly probable that the Debtor's 
Prison and Bridewell, for both of which there is more than 
abundance of room, will be transferred to that place as soon as 
the present occupants shall be removed to their new quarters. 
It need scarcely be observed, that the removal of these two pri- 
sons from the Park r add greatly to its beauty and elegance. 
The affairs of the Bridewell are directed by five respectable 
citizens, who are appointed by the Common <'^uncil by the 
name of "The Commissioners of the Alms House, Bridewell 
and Penitentiary of the City of New- York." The officers 
of the City Prison and Bridewell are the keeper and two de- 
puty keepers or turnkeys, who are appointed by the Com- 
mon Council. 

2d. The Penitentiary is a stone building 150 feet in 
length by 50 in breadth, and three stories high. It is situate 
at Bellevue, contiguous to the New Aim House, near to the 
Ea.-t River, on as pleasant and salubrious a spot as can be 
found on the continent, and is nearly three miles distant from 
the City Hall. It was opened on May 18. 1816: and exclu- 
sively appropriated to the confinement at hard labour of such 
persons as should be convicted at the Court of Sessions of petit 
larceny and other minor offences, and of vagrants. Of the 



192 public rmsoNS. 

prisoners confined Vre ; a number are employed on the 
roads, some in theg.vdei: r md other house work, some as shoe- 
makers, tailors, Szc al their respective trades j and of the wo- 
men, part are employed in the kitchen, some in making and 
mending the clothes of their fellow prisoners, and others in 
making slops or in such other work as to the commissioners 
may appear most conducive to the good of the establishment. 

The Tread Mill was in operation within the walls of the 
penitentiary from the 23d September, 1822, till November, 
1824, when it was necessarily suspended, in consequence of 
many being sick of a malignant disea-e called the typhus or 
jail fever, which had raged, for some time, with great fury, 
amongst the prisoners, and to which numbers of them fell 
victims ; as did also William L. Belden, M. D. who 
lost his life in the cause of humanity and three of the keepers. 
Since that time the Trea :'; mill has not again been revived, 
owing to two circumstances. 1st. Many young vagrants and 
petty offenders, who were then with great propriety put upon 
the wheel are now sent to the House of Uefuge, where it is 
certainly more reasonable to expect, that their morals will be 
corrected, their minds improved, and they (the youthful de- 
linquents) rendered useful members of society than if they 
had been confined in the Penitentiary. 2d- It has been more 
easy for the Commissioners to find slop work for the females 
than formerly. It is indeed, true, that the emoluments arising 
from this kind of work are of little benefit to the establish- 
ment ; but that which arose from grinding grain at the Tread 
Mill was much less. To this 1 may add, that though females, 
when on the wheel displayed more cheerfulness than the men, 
who were at work, in the same manner in another apartment, 
various reasons render it improper, that women should remain 
under this kind of discipline for any length of time ; nor do 
1 see the necessity of again resuming it at all. for their punish- 
ment, as the commissioners can easily devise some kind of em- 
ployment for them more congenial to the habits of their sex. 

But with respect to the male criminals, I see no impropriety 
in setting th^m on the Tread mill, when more profitable em- 
ployment cannot be obtained for them. 

Of the effects of this kind of punishment, on the prisoners. 
I have had considerable opportunity of forming a correct 
opinion, having resided as an under keeper for about seven 
months in the year 1824, and after mature reflection I have 
no hesitation in declaring, that the labour of the tread mill was 
neither intolerably severe nor in the least injurious to health, 
that the work imposed upon the convicts, in the penitentiary. 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 19o 

may be rather considered as a healthy recreation than a dread- 
ful punishment, and that even the Tread mill, if I except the 
chains worn by the male convicts, is not harder work than we 
see daily performed by numbers of our honest labourers in 
this city. Still, however, no prisoner either in the Peniten- 
tiary or State Prison need expect any thing agreeable, so long 
as he is immured within their walls. No sooner does he 
arrive at the place of his destination than he is obliged to ex- 
change his clothes, however fine they may be, for the homely 
uniform of the place, which, though comfortable, is of a very 
coarse texture. Of food he is allowed a sufficiency of a very 
inferior quality ; but from the moment he becomes an inmate 
in either of these prisons, he may bid an adieu to dainties and 
luxury. His associates are the most abandoned wretches and 
he is debarred from the company of his acquaintances, friends 
and relations. Day succeeds day and affords variety to most; 
but none to him, and he drags out his miserable existence in 
one continued scene of melancholy, gloom, and despondency- 
There are certainly numbers of thoughtless miscreants, who 
view the punishment inflicted upon them with the utmost in- 
difference ; but I well know that the situation of every pris- 
oner, unless of those, who are hardened in iniquity and lost to all 
sense of feeling, is exceedingly wretched. It was long a matter 
of regret, that so many juvenile offenders sleeping in the same 
room with villains hardened in guilt, were thereby greatly in- 
jured in their morals. To remedy this glaring impropriety, sixty 
cells, each 7 feet in length by 3 1-2 in breadth, were constructed 
in the summer of 1825, so that those, who were most likely 
to contaminate others by their bad example are now kept en- 
tirely by themselves. 

The officers of the penitentiary are a keeper and three dep- 
uty keepers, appointed by the Common Council, and the com- 
missioners are authorised to appoint as many out-doorkeepers, 
not exceeding ten, as they may deem proper, who shall have the 
charge jand safe keeping of prisoners at work on the roads or 
otherwise. They may, likewise, appoint four of the said as- 
sistant keepers as watchmen for the Penitentiary. The pres- 
ent keeper is John O. Woodruff, Esq, who, for several years 
previous to the death of the late keeper, Alderman William 
Hooghland, acted as assistant keeper, with credit to himself 
and the entire satisfaction of the commissioners. 

3d. The State Prison is a large stone building three 
stories high, having all its workshops in the rear, and wa* 
opened for the reception of convicts in the year 1796. It 
stands about a mile and a half to the Northeastward of the 

R 






J- 9 4 PUBLIC PRISONS. 

City Hall, in the Village of Greenwich, near the banks of the 
Hudson River, on as healthy a spot as is to be found on the 
Island. The space is enclosed by a strong stone wall fourteen 
feet high in front, and twenty-three in rear, in which is com- 
prised the prison and its appendages, in extent about four 
acres. 

The prison is under the superintendence and direction of 
seven inspectors, who are appointed by the governor by and 
with the advice and consent of the Senate. They make rules 
for the government of the convicts, and other persons belong- 
ing to the prison, appoint a keeper, deputy keeper, agent, 
clerk, and as many assistant keepers'* as to them may appear 
proper, whose salaries are all paid by the state, as are also 
the expenses of conveying the convicts thither from the differ- 
ent counties and of their maintenance while there. The 
number of assislant keepers is at present, fifteen. 

The Inspectors, or rather their agent, purchase clothing, bed- 
ding, provisions, tools, implements, and materials for the em- 
ployment of the convicts, and dispose of the same when man- 
ufactured to the best advantage. The inspectors meet regu- 
larly every Thursday to transact the business of the Institu- 
tion and oftener if necessary. 

To specify all the trades or callings, which are carried on in 
this prison would be too tedious. There are blacksmiths, 
nailors, shoemakers, tailors, carpenters, chairmakers, cabinet- 
makers, coopers, weavers, &c. all of the prisoners, so far as 
practicable, being permitted to follow that particular trade or 
occupation, in which theyhad been brought up. Young men 
reared in idleness and unacquainted with any regular means of 
earning an honest livelihood, when lodged in this place, are 
instructed in such trade or business, as may in the opinion of 
the Inspectors, be most conducive to their future benefit. 
They are thus enabled to become good workmen, by the ex- 
piration of the term for which they had been sentenced to 
confinement, and have it fully in their power, if they feel so 
disposed, to provide for themselves in a comfortable man- 
ner. Decent strangers as well as citizens, who are desirous 
of seeing the prisoners at work, may be gratified by paying 
12 1-2 cents each for the benefit of the Institution. 

In the State Prison on the 13th of April 1826, the number 
of convicts were 

Of white men 318 Of coloured men 91 
white women 11 coloured women 28 

329 119— Total 4 IS , 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 195 

But injustice to the reputation of our state, it is proper to 
observe that more than one half of the above convicts are from 
foreign countries or from other states, many of whom have 
been, no doubt, attracted by the hopes of getting more abun- 
dant plunder in this metropolis than they could expect in any 
other place. In the Prison hospital, in April last, there were 
thirty-seven patients, most of whose complaints were of a 
pulmonary or dropsical nature. 

Having already noticed the dress and diet of the prisoners 
under the preceding article, the Penitentiary, I now proceed 
to take notice of the means adopted to prevent their escape. 
It has been mentioned already, that there are fifteen assistant 
keepers. Six of these are on the watch every night, and so 
stationed in the different wards, that they can easily discover 
the commencement of any disturbance. But besides these, 
there is an armed guard, consisting of a captain and fourteen 
privates,* whose duty it is to suppress all riots and commotions 
among the prisoners and to prevent their escape. >n this In- 
stitution, the prisoners have been wise enough to discover that 
the eye of justice was too vigilant, and its arm too powerful to 
permit them to fly in the face of authority with impunity, or 
with even the least chance of success. Hence nothing like a 
general rising has taken place since the year 1803, when there 
arose a commotion which was not suppressed till three weio 
killed and several wounded. The present keeper is John 
Gibson, Esq. a gentleman in the prime of life, and thorougly 
acquainted with every part of the business of the establish- 
ment, as he has acted with honour to himself and advantage to 
the public in the capacity of a deputy keeper from th April, 
1802. till August in the year 1825, when on the death of Da- 
vid Board, i£sq. then keeper, he was appointed in his stead. 

New State Prison. It having appeared to many benevo- 
lent individuals, that the rooms in our State Prison were by 
far too large to answer the purpose of the Institution, and that 
the circumstance of so many prisoners sleeping together in one 
apartment had an evident tendency to corrupt their morals, 
representations were made io the legislature upon the subject. 
at their session in 1 825. For this as well as for other reasons. 
an act was passed, March 7th, 1825, " authorising the erec- 
tion of a new State Prison in the first or second senate dis- 
tricts of this state," and appointing George Tibbits, Stephen 
Allen, and Samuel M. Hopkins, Commissioners. 

* Till the 13th of April last (1826) the State Prison guard was com- 
posed of a captain, two corporals, a drummer, and fifer, and twentv 
privates. 



196 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 



The foundation of the proposed edifice was, according!} 
laid, at Mount Pleasant, Westchester county, about 36 miles 
from the city, in May following. It is to contain 800 cells, 
each 7 feet long by 3 1-2 in breadth, so that whatever number 
of prisoners, it may be supposed, there will be confined there at 
any one time, there will be a place, in which each of th*mca» 
sleep separately. Sixty of these cells were completed in the 
month of November last. Considerable progress has been 
made in the building and it is expected, that it will be fin- 
ished in the spring of 1828. The whole work has been car- 
ried on by convicts, of whom there are now therebetween 130 
and 140. 

House of Refuge. 

The reformation of persons advanced in years and inured 
to the commission of crimes, though often attempted, has 
heretofore been of little benefit either to the wretched offen- 
ders or to the community. Indeed, we are taught by sad ex- 
perience, that if a person at the age of forty years or upwards 
be convicted in a court of justice, the probability of his being 
rendered a good member of society by any human means may, 
in a great measure, be considered as hopeless. 

With respect to juvenile delinquents, however, the case is 
widely different. Their manners are not permanently formed, 
and though their habits may fce vicious in ccnsequwnca of ihe 
bad example or neglect of their parents, their minds are plia- 
ble and, by the use of proper means, may be impressed with 
the principles of morality and religion, in consequence of 
which, instead of remaining the outcasts, they may become use- 
ful members of society. 

"A society for the reformation of juvenile offenders" had 
been formed in London for several years, and in their annual 
report, June 3d. 1823, they thus state the advantages, which 
were likely to result from it. "The success of this Institution, 
satisfactorily proves, that there are few even amongst the most 
guilty, who may not, by proper discipline and treatment, be 
subdued and reclaimed, and justifies the meeting in the con- 
viction, that no measure would be so efficacious in arresting 
the progress of juvenile delinquency, as the establishment of 
a well regulated prison for the reformation of criminal youth." 

With such satisfactory evidence of the utility of this Insti- 
tution in London, it naturally occurred to many of our fellow- 
citizens, that if one upon a similar plan should be established 
here, it might be equally conducive to the cause of humanity. 
\ society was accordingly organized by a number of benevcn. 



PUBLIC PEISONS. 19? 

lent persons who, on the 29th of March 1823, obtained an act 
for its incorporation by the name of "The Society for the re- 
formation of Juvenile offenders in the city of New York." 

Their charter authorises them to establish "A house of 
Refuge" for juvenile delinquents, and places the concerns of 
the corporation, under thirty managers, who are to be annual- 
ly elected by the members on the 3d Monday of November. 

By the 4th section of the act, the managers are authorised 
to take into the House of Refuge all such children as shall be 
committed as vagrants, or convicted of crimes in this city, as 
may in the judgement of the court, before whom they shall 
be tried, the police magistrates or the commissioners of the 
Alms House, be proper objects, and the said managers may 
place such children, during their minority, at such employ- 
ments, and cause them to be instructed in such branches of 
useful knowledge, as shall be suitable to their capacities, and 
they may bind oui the said children to such persons and at 
such places and to learn such trade or employment, as they 
shall think will be most conducive to their reformation and fu- 
ture benefit. 

The first concern of the managers was to ascertain how far 
they might rely upon the bounty of the citizens for the means 
requisite to carry into effect the proposed asylum. They pub- 
lished a pathetic address to their fellow citizens, in which they 
pointed out the great benefits which might be expected to re- 
sult to the community from the establishment of a "House of 
Refuge," but more particularly to those unhappy individuals, 
for whose reformation the idea of such an institution was first 
started, and after stating the difficulties, to which they would 
be exposed in treading the untried path, unaided by example 
in this country, they concluded thus. "But all we want as an 
encouragement to perseverance, is the promptitude and effi- 
ciency of your co-operation." This appeal was not made in 
vain. Subscriptions and donations to the amount of about 
.§'15,000 were the result. The legislature, likewise, at their 
next session granted to the institution the sum of $2000 per 
annum for five years, in aid of its funds. 

Thus encourged, the next care of the managers was to find 
a suitable scite for The House of Refuge, and they fixed on the 
spot, held by the general government, as an arsenal, at the 
juncture of Broadway and Bowery, which was no longer 
wanted for that purpose. And it was scarcely possible 
that they could have made a better choice. From the vicious 
habits of the boys, who would necessarily be sent there, it was 
obvious, that a high wall around the premises would be indiV 



198 PUBLIC PRISONS. 

pensably necessary. The arsenal not only afforded this im- 
portant advantage ; but contained a suitable dwelling for the 
superintendent and his family. The outer wall includes a 
space of 320 by 300 feet, which is quite sufficient for any ex- 
tension of the institution. 

On the 1st January, 1825, the House of Refuge was opened* 
when nine poor outcasts from society, viz. three boys and six 
girls, clothed in rags, were placed before a numerous and res- 
pectable audience, whose feelings unanimously vibrated in uni- 
son with the philanthrophic views, which led to the formation 
of the Institution. The number of its inmates continued to 
increase to fifty eight, viz : forty four boys and fourteen girls, 
beyond which the former limited accommodations for the 
males could not be extended. The whole number admitted 
from its commencement to the annual meeting, 16th Nov. last, 
was seventy-three, of whom two were returned to their pa- 
rents, one sent to the Alms-house, one discharged being of age, 
four absconded, and nine were indented. The present number, 
(May 10th 1826,) consists of sixty boys and fifteen girls. 

Though the building found on the premises answered a good 
temporary purpose, yet it was totally inadequate to the wants 
of such a school of industry and reformation as the occasion 
demanded. Accordingly the managers caused a stone edifice, 
two stories high, 150 feet long by 38 feet wide to be erected. 
This is exclusively designed for boys, and it is intended, to ap- 
propriate the original building to the use of girls, for which, 
however, it is not well constructed, and quite too small to ad- 
mit of that extension of the female department, which is de- 
sirable. A building corresponding with that erected for the 
males is, therefore, a gieat disideratum in the completion of 
the plan. 

With respect to the utility of this institution, the statement 
of Hugh Maxwell, Esq. District Attorney, to the Managers, 
who had requested his opinion on the subject, will convey the 
most satisfactory information, as the station of that gentleman, 
enables him to judge more correctly of its effects, than any 
other person. 

"I am happy to state," says Mr. M. " that the House of Ref- 
uge has had a most benign influence in diminishing the number 
of juvenile delinquents. The most depraved boys have been 
withdrawn from the haunts of vice, and the examples, which 
i hey gave, in a great degree destroyed. 

\"l find no difficulty now in checking the young offenders. 
Before the establishment of the House of Refuge, a lad 14 or 
15 years of age, might have been arrested four or five times for 
petty thefts, and it was hardly ever that a jury would convict 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 199 

him. They would rather, that the culprit acknowledged to be 
guilty, should be discharged altogether, than be confined in the 
prisons of the state or county. 

"This disposition so frequently exercised by magistrates 
and jurors rendered the lad more bold in guilt, and I 
have known instances of lads now in the House of Refuge, 
being indicted halt a dozen of times, and as often discharged to 
renew their crimes, and with the conviction, that they might 
steal with impunity. The consideration, however, that there 
is a charity, which provides for objects of this character, has 
removed all objections to convictions in cases of guilt. 

"Formerly too many citizens were reluctant in bringing 
to the police-office young persons, who were detected in the 
commission of crimes. This operated as an encouragement 
to depraved parents to send very young children to depredate 
upon the community — if detected they knew no punishment 
would follow. This is one cause of the small number of juve- 
nile offenders during the last year. I might enlarge on the 
benefits of this noble charity, were it necessary. Of this I am 
certain, that no institution has ever been formed in this coun- 
try by benevolent men, more useful and beneficent. 

Hugh Maxwell.' 7 

Oct. 21st, 1825. 

It must be obvious, that in such an institution, particularly 
at its commencement, the success, in a great measure, depends 
upon the zeal, abilities and discretion of the superinten- 
dent. Mr. Joseph Curtis was the gentleman, whom the 
managers appointed to that office, concerning whom they thus 
express themselves in their report. " Upon the whole, as it 
respects the important and main question of moral reformation, 
the managers have abundant reason to congratulate the society, 
on the evidence, which their short experience has afforded of 
the substantial benefit, which may be expected to flow from 
the operations of this Institution. The superintendent, (whose 
vigilant and judicious attentions to the untried duties 
of his station have given much satisfaction) speaks in the 
most decisive terms of encouragement, with respect to the 
moral improvement of the children of both sexes. Some of 
die boys who appeared for a considerable time to be the most 
obstinately depraved began, at length, to yield to the application 
of the moral remedies, which were patiently and steadily ap- 
plied, and now rank among the very best hi the Institution." 

The same observations apply to several of the girls, who ate 
under the more immediate care of Miss Fiuebe Curtis, as mat- 



200 PUBLIC PRISONS. 

fon, wWlike her worthy brother, has her heart set upon the 
prosperity of the Institution. There is, likewise, a committee 
of thirteen respectable ladies, whose watchful care and enlight- 
ened counsel deserve the greatest commendation. Jn addi- 
tion to their oversight of the domestic regulations and employ- 
ment of the girls, their conversations with these unfortunate 
children, their admonitions, their encouragement, their patient 
efforts to implant into their minds the pure principles of relig- 
ious obligation, strengthened by scripture truths, cannot fail to 
come powerfully in aid of the instructions of the matron in ef- 
fecting the moral improvement of her charge. 

To those, who have visited this Institution, although in its 
infancy, the appeal may be made, whether they have not wit- 
nessed the altered countenances, the modest demeanour, the 
cheerful industry, and the promising indications, which its in 
mates exhibit, with sensations of delight. To render it the 
most useful charitable establishment not only in this city, but 
in the United States, nothing is wanted but funds, and of the 
means of procuring them, in the most ample manner, it would 
be a libel on the benevolence of our legislature, our common 
council, and our citizens at large, to entertain even the slight- 
est doubt. I am happy to add, that the legislature, on the 
28th. January, 1 82G, passed an act granting, in aid of the funds 
of this institution, the sum of $13,000. 

The payment of fifty dollars constitutes a person a member 
for life, and an annual subscription of three dollars a member 
so long as it is continued to be paid. 

The following thirty gentlemen are managers for this year, 
of whom the first nine are officers; Cadwallader D. Colden. 
President, Stephen Alien, John T. Irving, John Griscom. 
Henry I. Wyckoff, Cornelius Dubois, and James Lovett, Vice 
Presidents, Ralph Olmsted, Treasurer, and Robert T. Mott. 
Secretary. 

The other managers are Arthur Burtis, Isaac Collins, Sam- 
uel Cowdrey, Robert C. Cornell, William A. Davis, Thomas 
Eddy, Tho?nas Gibbons. James W. Gerard, Joseph Grinnell, 
John E. Hyde, Ansel W. Ives, William F. Mott, Hugh 
Maxwell, Richard Riker, John Stearns, Frederick Sheldon, 
Peter Sharpe, Arthur Tappan, Jonathan W. Wainwright, 
Gabriel Wisner, and Samuel Wood. 

f£f° Donations to the House of Refuge will be thankful- 
ly received by either of the above gentlemen. Where, it may 
be asked, can they be bestowed with more propriety ? 



PtJBLIC PRISONS. 201 

The Alms House. 

The house formerly appropriated for the reception of the 
indigent was, at the time it was built, viz. in the year l77$- y 
deemed sufficiently large to answer the purpose for which it 
was intended. It stands in the Park in the rear of the New 
City Hall, and fronts on Chamber-street* ; but as our paupers 
increased in the same ratio with our population, it became ne- 
cessary to provide for their accommodation in a more spa- 
cious edifice. The piesent Alms-house had been finished at 
Bellevue, in the spring of the year 181(5, when the paupers 
were forthwith removed to that commodious building. It is 
erected very near to the banks of the East River, in as pleas- 
ant and healthy a situation as can be found in any part of the 
United States, and nearly three miles to the Northeastward ol 
the City Hall. 

The Alms House, together with the Penitentiary, which has 
been already described, and the Bellevue Hospital, the whole ot 
which constitute " The Bellevue Establishment" are enclosed 
by a stone wall, from 7 to 10 feet high, containing 26 acres. — 
It is built of blue stone, 325 feet in front with two wings of 
1 50 feet in depth each. The whole, which is three stories high, 
is divided into seventy apartments of from 25 by 35 to 25 by 
65 feet, besides pantries, cells, &c. Belonging to this Institu- 
tion, are two brick hospitals, one for men, the oilier for women, 
each of which is 25 by 75 and three stories high, containing six 
rooms 25 by 32 1-2 feet; two work shops, one of brick, 200 
feet long by 25 Tn width, and three stories high ; the other of 
stone, 100 by 25 feet, and two stories high. Besides the above, 
there is the house for the superintendent and family, two 
houses for stewards, a house for the gardner, wash-house, ba- 
kery, stables, cow-house, &c. 

Agreeably to the city charter, the Common Council are em- 
powered to erect, or convert any of their buildings already 
erected into an Alms-house for the accommodation of the poor, 
They are likewise authorized by an act of the legislature, pas- 

* Since the New Alms-house was opened, this building has been cal- 
led the "New York Institute" and with the exception of certain apart- 
ments in the Eastern wing, which have been reserved for the accom- 
modation of John Hunter, Esq. Clerk of the Commissioners, and his 
family, an office for the use of the said Commissioners, and some rooms 
in the basement story for the reception of paupers till they can be con- 
veniently removed to Bellevue, has been appropriated for the use of 
Scudder's American Musuem, the Academy of fine Arts, the Historical 
Society, the Seminary for the Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb, a lee- 
Uue Room for Dr. Griscom, and other literary institutions. 



202 PUBLIC PRISONS. 

sed 8th April, 1 801 , to appoint a number hot exceeding five, oi 
the freeholders and inhabitants of the city, to be overseers of 
the poor, by the name of the Commissioners of the Alms- 
house and Bridewell of the City of New York.''* 

The major part of these have power not only to oversee and 
provide for the , oor who may be in the house, but. likewise, 
to administer reliei to such poor families as evidently require it, 
instead of taking them into the house, if in their opinion, this 
latter rno<1e shall be most proper. 

The officers of the establishment appointed by the Common 
Council are the superintendent, clerk, a House Physician, and 
a House Surgeon, who alternately discharge the duties of a 
man-midwife and a visiting Physician and a visiting Surgeon. 
The commissioners are vested with full power and authority 
to appoint three stewards, and all other officers, agents and ser- 
vants in or about the Alms-house, Bridewell and Penitentiary 5 
to fix then* salaries, to superintend and direct the business and 
transactions of the said institutions, and all matters relating 
thereto, except the appropriation of money, and to make such 
rules and regu ' lotions for the government of he same, in conform- 
ity with the laws and ordinances of the Common Council as 
will best promote the public interest; and any two of them may 
bind out apprentices an servants, under thr same sanctions, 
to which the overseers in the several towns of the state, are 
subjected. The Superintendent is alone invested with au- 
thority to appoint inferior officers, such as cooks, overseers of 
rooms, and other domestics of the house, all of whom are re- 
movable at his pleasure. 

There is an ordinance of the Common Council respecting 
the admission and discharge of paupers ; classing them accord- 
ing to their different characters and for the restraint of improp- 
er conduct ; their clothing, diet and fuel ; the treatment of the 
sick; the care and management of children ; the aclhiission of 
visitors and the abuse of office. Agreeably to this ordinance, 
such of the paupers as are capable of work, are provided with 
suitable employment, and the superintendent may reward the 
industrious by small gratuities. The labour assigned them 
is so far from being injurious, that it is highly conducive to their 
health, and more is not exacted from any man or woman 
than can be performed with the greatest ease. A sufficiency 

* They are now Commissioners of the Alms house, Bridewell and 
Penitentiary., and, at present consist of John Targke, Thomas R„ 
Smith, Peter Stagg, John Westeryelt and Arthur Burtis (su- 
perintendent ex officio) Esquires. 



PUBLIC PRISONS. 203 

of good and wholesome provisions, is allowed to each, and they 
are provided with clean, whole and comfortable clothes. Such 
of the sick, as can be removed with safety, are placed in the 
hospital and they, as well as the convalescents, receive such 
food and medicine, as the physicians may prescribe, and have 
proper attendance under the direction of the Superintendent. 

Health)' nurses are provided for infantile children, and when 
this can be done out of the house, it is preferred. Such chil- 
dren as have arrived at a suitable age, regularly attend school, 
where they are instructed in reading, writing and arithmetic. 
There are about three hundred and, it would be difficult to 
find an equal number at any sehool in this city, who are as 
healthy as these poor children, and their progress in education 
is such as to reflect great honour on Mr. Montfredy, their 
teacher. Thev are kept in different apartments according to 
their sexes, and are required to attend Divine worship, which is 
celebrated in the church belonging to the establishment, twice 
on every Lord's Day. As soon as they have attained a prop- 
er age, they are bound out to suitable trades or employments. 

All decent persons may visit the Alms-house at reasonable 
hours, in the presence of the superintendent, or of such per- 
son as he may appoint, and I am confident, that such citizens 
as have not visited this institution, as well as strangers, will be 
much gratified, in going through the different wards, work 
shops, school, &c. where they will find every thing arranged in 
the best order. 

The number of paupers varies according to the season. — 
The greatest number in the year ending September 30, 1825, 
was 1867 and the lowest 1437, making an average of 1652. — 
This is, indeed, a great number, but our poor list is greatly en- 
larged by wretched emigrants from Europe, and by needy ad- 
venturers from most parts of our own country. The number 
of deaths in the year above mentioned was 495. This may 
appear a large proportion ; but if it be considered, that the 
greatest part of these persons are far advanced in years, or al- 
most worn out by intemperance and disease before they fix 
their abode in (his asylum, there is no occasion for surprise. 

The expense of the Alms-house, Bridewell and the Peni- 
tentiary, including the salaries of the superintendent, physi- 
cians, clerks, keepers, assistants, &c. was in 

the year 1824, $80,104 ' 

1825, for similar items, as also for 

building 60 cells in the Penitentiary $ 81,546 67 

It is obvious, that in a family composed of no less than 1652 
persons of various habits, dispositions, talents and culture of 



204 TUBLIC PRISONS. 

mind, there will be a great many, who are dissatisfied with 
their lot; but it may be asserted, that those who have the least 
cause are the loudest in their complaints. They, who have 
seen prosperity in their former days are, in general, on a re- 
verse of circumstances, reconciled to their fate ; whilst many 
of those, who have seldom fared better than since they became 
tenants of the Alms-house spend their time in unavailing mur- 
murs. They have, indeed, one source of discontent, which 
they will not openly avow. They are deprived of the use of 
ardent spirits, which though the principal cause of rendering 
them incapable of providing for themselves and families, they 
still cherish with the fondest remembrance. 

The business of this establishment is conducted with great 
propriety. The services of the present commissioners, whose 
names have been already mentioned are highly appreciated by 
the public, to whom they are not only known as philanthropists ; 
but as gentlemen, who, from their long experience are well 
qualified to devise the best mode of rendering those committed 
to their care, as comfortable as circumstances will permit ; and 
with respect to Arthur Burtis, Esq. the superintendent, it 
may well be said, that our Common Council have made a 
most judicious choice The duties of his office are peculiarly 
arduous; but by his unceasing assiduity, no part is neglected. 
To the complaints of the numerous family, whom the public 
have more immediately entrusted to his charge, he pays 
prompt attention, and generally settles their differences in such 
a manner as is satisfactory to both parties. He is intimately 
acquainted with all the concerns of the House, and, though he 
may repose great confidence in the officers under him, he gives 
them the necessary orders; but does not content himself till 
he is satisfied that these orders have been executed according 
to his wishes. 

Before I close this article, justice demands, that I should 
pay a brief tribute of respect to the memory of the late Rich- 
ard Furman, Esq. his worthy predecessor. This gentleman 
was superintendent for many years, not only after, but before 
the removal of the establishment to Bellevue, and was univer- 
sally esteemed as a prudent, humane, active and intelligent of- 
ficer. He has transmitted so unsullied a reputation to pos- 
terity as may well be viewed with respect and reverence by his 
surviving family. 



ANNUAL CENSUS. 



20:> 



Annual Census 

Oi' the Humane and Criminal Institutions in the city of New- 
York, with their increase or decrease during the past year, 
by the attending minister, the Rev. John Stanford, A . 
M.January 1st, 1826. 



Boys 103, girls 56 

Patients, 162. 

White men, 521 
White boys, 368 
Black men, 25 
Black boys 21 



Orphan Asylum. 

Total 159 

City Hospital. 
Lunatics 88. Total 250 

City Alms House. 
do women 533 — 1054 
do. girls 234 — 602 
do. women SO — 55 



Increase 9 
decrease G 



do. 



girls 



10—31 



1/42 - increase 53 



Maniac men 



Boys 



Bellevue Hospital. 
40. do. women 44 — 84 



House of Refuge. 
41) girls 14 



63 



Debtors' Prison. 
fn confinement,* including the liberties 178 decrease 17- 



White men 78 
Black men 48 



Bridewell. 
do. women 17 — 95 

do. women 19 — 67—162 increase 4 i 



Penitentiary. 
Criminals, white men 52 do. women 2 — 54 
black men 27 do. women 3 — 30 
Vagrants, white men 59 do. women 93 — 152 

black men 16 do. women 42 — 58 — 294 dec. 44 



White men 352 
Black men 104 



State Prison. 
do. women 13 — 365 
do. women 27 — 131 — 496, decrease 146 



Total 3428 



" Of those, not more than twelve were locked up in prison. The 
others were at liberty to take up their abode in any part of the city and 
countv where they thought proper 

S 



206 LIST OP STREETS, &C. 

Last year, ----- 348G 

Present year ----- 3428 

Decrease - - - - - - 58 



CHAPTER V. 

A List of all the streets, lanes, alleys, 8fc. in the city, exhib- 
iting their situation. 

Albany Basin, on the North River, between Albany and Ce- 
dar Streets. 

Albany, a. small street, running from No. 125 Greenwich to the 
North River. 

Allen, formerly called Fourth-street is the 4th street, East 
from the Bowery, and leads from Division to North- 
street. 

Amity, leads from Broadway in a Westerly direction to the Sixth 
Avenue. 

Amos, is opposite to the State Prison, and leads from thence to 
Greenwich-lane. 

Ann, leads from the Southeast side of the Park to Gold-street. 

Anthony, leads from Hudson-street along the Northerly side, 
of the City Hospital yard to the intersection of Or- 
ange and Cross Streets. 

Arden, is a short street in Greenwich Village, between Herring 
and Bedford Streets. 

Art, crosses Broadway a little above Vauxhall-garden, and leads 
from the Bowery, into Greenwich-lane. 

Arundel, is the tenth street, East from the Bowery, and leads 
from Division to North-street. 

Asylum, is the second East of Hudson-street, and lies between 
Christopher-street and Greenwich-lane. 

Attorney, is the eleventh street to the Eastward of the Bow- 
ery, and lies between Division and North Streets. 

Augustus, is the first Street to the Northward of Chatham- 
street, and leads from Chamber to Pearl-street. 

Avenue, First, leads from North, at the head of Allen-street, to 
the Alms-house and Penitentiary, at Bellevue. 

Second, leads from North at the head of Christie-. 

street, to Kip's Bay. 

Third, leads from the Bowery, at the opening o.f 

Fourth-street, to Harlsem Bridge. 



LIST OF STREETS, &C. 207 

Avenues Fourth, Seventh and Eleventh are opened in no part. 

The Tenth is opened as far as Harsenville. Avenues A. B. C. 

are now under the consideration, of commissioners, and it is ex- 
pected that the necessary steps will be taken for their being 

opened before next winter. 

— — Fifth, the part opened, which extends from Inclen- 

berg Hill to Harlaem commons, is known by the 
name of the Middle Road. 

Sixth, is opened from Carmine-street to Green- 
wich-lane. 

Eight, leads from the head of Greenwich-lane to 

Macomb's dam. 

Ninth, which leads from the head of Greenwich- 
street, is opened to Twenty-<4ghth-street. 

D, is opened from North to Seventh-street. 

Bank, is the fourth above the State Prison, and leads from 
Greenwich-lane to the North River. 

Bancker, is the second to the Southward of Chatham-street, 
and extends from Pearl to Grand-street, near Cor- 
laers Hook. 

Barclay, is the second above St. Paul's Church, and extends 
from the Park to the North River. 

Barrow, in Greenwich Village, is a continuation of Commerce- 
street to the North River. 

Batavia, is the fourth from the East River, and leads from 
Roosevelt to James-street. 

Bayard, leads from Division-street across the Bowery to 
Orange-street. 

Beach, leads from Chapel-street, along the Southerly side of 
Hudson-square to the North River. 

Beaver-lane, the second above the Battery, leads from Broad- 
way to the North River. 

Beaver, leads from Broadway, at the Bowling Green, to Wil- 
liam-street. 

Beekman, extends from the Park to the East River. It former- 
ly went no further than Pearl-street ; but in the year 
1823, it was opened from Pearl to Water-street, 
where it met a continuation to the river through what 
was then called Crane-wharf. 

Bedford, in Greenwich Village, runs from the conjunction of 
Houston, Hammersley and Hancock Streets to 
Christopher-street. 

Benson, a very small street, on the Southeasterly side of Broad- 
way, leading from Leonard towards Franklin-street, 



208 LIST OB 'STREETS, &C. 

Birmingham, a small street, above Market-street, which lead.? 

from Henry to Bancker-street. 
Bleecker, leads from the Bowery to Hancock-street, where it 
meets Herring-street in Greenwich Village. It cros- 
ses Broadway a little above St. Patrick's Cathedral. 
Bond, is the next above the preceding, and extends only from 
Broadway to the Bowery, where it meets Forsyth- 
street. 
Bowery, leads from Chatham-square to the point, where the 
Bloomingdale and old Harlsem roads separate, at 
the place w\ ieh was formerly the United States 7 
Arsenal ; but now the House of Refuge. 

Bowling Green, is at the lower end of Broadway and lies be- 
tween Broadway and Whitehall-street. 

Bridge, is a small street, which extends from the Battery to 
Broad-street. 

Broad, leads from Wall-street to the East river. Opposite 
the head of this street is the Custom-House in Wall- 
street. 

Broadway, which is a very fine Street, being 80 feet in width, 
extends in a Northeast line, from the Battery to the 
distance of about two miles, where it forms a junction 
with the Bowery road. 

Broome, is the first above Corlaer's Hook, and extends from 
the East River to Greenwich at Canal-street, cros- 
sing the Bowery and Broadway and is, in length, 
nearly two miles. 

hurling -slip, extends from Pearl-street, opposite the end of 
John-street, to the East river. 

Burton, leads from Herring, opposite Cornelia-street, in a 
Westerly direction to the Episcopal Cemetry. 

Canal, is a very spacious street, being 100 feet in width. It 
begins at Collect-street, crosses Brodway, at the 
Stone-bridge, and extends to the North River. 

Cannon, leads from Grand to North-street at Corlaer's Hook, 
and is the third from the East River. 

Carlisle, is a small street leading from No. 113 Greenwich- 
street to the East River. 

Carmine, in Greenwich village, connects Clarkson-strreet with 
the 6th Avenue. 

Catharine-lane, leads from Broadway, to Elm-street, between 
Anthony and Leonard Streets. 

Catharine-slip, is that part of Catharine-street, which extends 
from Cherry-street to the East River. 



LIST OP STREETS, &C. 209 

Catharine, leads from the junction ot' the Bowery, Chatham 
and Division Streets, to the East River. 

Cedar, leads from No. 68 William-street, to the North River, 
crossing Broadway on the Northerly side ot the City 
Hotel. 

Charles, a, liitle to the Northward of the State Prison, leads 
from Greenwich-lane to Washington-street. 

Chamber, commences at Chatham-street, and crossing Broad- 
way North of the Park, extends to the North River. 

Chapel, runs to the Westward of Columbia College, from Bar- 
clay to Canal-street. 

Chatham, runs from the corner of Frankfort-street, nearthe jail, 
in an easterly direction, and closes at the commence- 
ment of Harman, Catharine, Division Streets and of 
the Bowery, which place is called Chatham-square. 

Chatham-sq are. See the preceding article. 

Cherry, leads from Peari-street, at Franklin-square, to Cor- 
laer's Hook. 

Cheapside, leads from Catharine, and terminates in Lombardy- 
street, a little to the Northward of Market-street. 

Chesnut, a small street, between Pearl and Roosevelt Streets, 
which leads from Bancker to Oak-street. 

Christopher, is on the south side of the State Prison, and ex- 
tends from Greenwich -lane to the North River. 

Christie, is the first street to the Eastward of the Bowery and 
leads from Division to North-Street, where it opens 
into the second Avenue. It was formerly dlled 
First-street. 

Church, leads from No lf>0 Fulton-street, in the rear of St. 
Paul's Church and extends *o Canal-street, running 
nearly parallel to Broadway. 

Clarke, is a small street a little above Hudson-street, running 
from Broome to Spring-street. 

Clarkson, is the fifth above Spring-street and leads from Car- 
mine-street to the North River. 

Cliff, commences, at John-street, between Pearl and Gold 
Streets, and extends to Ferry-street. 

Clinton, lies towards Co riser's Hook, and leads from Division- 
street to the East River. 

Ccenties-slip, extends from Pearl-street, to the East River, be- 
tween Wall-street and Old-slip. 

Coffee-house-slip, is that part of Wall-street, which lies be- 
tween Pearl-street ar.d the East River. 

Collect, lies between Chatham-street and Broadway and ex- 
tends from Pearl to Hester-street. 
S2 



210 LIST OF STREETS, &C. 

College-Green, a beautiful spot, on which Columbia College 
is situate, at the lower end of Park-place. 

Gollister, is a small lane, on the North side of the city, leading 
from Beach to Hubert-street. 

Columbia, is the fifth from the East River, a little above Cor- 
laer's Hook, and leads from Grand to North-street. 

Commerce, in Greenwich Village, leads from Herring to Bar- 
row-street, crossing Bedford-street. 

Corlcer's is a small street, at the Hook, and leads from Grand- 
street, to the East River. 

Cornelia, a short street, in Greenwich village, which is a con- 
tinuation of Burton-street, leading from Herring- 
street to the Sixth Avenue. 

Corporation-dock , is at Fulton-street on the North River. 

Crosby, is the first to the Eastward of Broadway to which it 
runs parallel and leads from Howard to Bleecker- 
street. 

Courtland-alley , is a small lane near Broadway, extending 
from Franklin to Walker-street. 

Courtland, is the third above the City Hotel, and leads from 
Broadway, opposite Maiden-lane, to the North River. 

Crane-wharf. See Beekman-street. 

Cross, extends from Chamber-street in the rear of the Park to 
Mott-street. 

Delancey, is the second above Grand-street, and leads from the 
Bowery to the East River. 

Depeyster, is between Pine and Wall Streets, and leads from 
Water-street to the East River 

Desbrosses, is the third above Hudson-square, and leads from 
Hudson-street, to (he North River 

Dey, is the fourth above the City Hotel, and leads from Broad- 
way, nearly opposite John-street, to the North River. 

Division, leads from Chatham-square to Grand-street, where 
it joins Pitt-street. 

Dominick, is the first South of Spring-street, and leads from 
Greenwich to Clarke-street. 

Dover, leads from Pearl-street, at Franklin -square, to the East 
River. 

Doyer, is a small and irregular street which leads from the 
lower end of the Bowery to Pell-street. 

Downing, is the first to the Southward of Carmine-street, and 
leads from the head of Varick-street to Herring near 
Bleecker-street. 

Duane, begins at Rose-street and after crossing Chatham- 
street and Broadway ends at the North River. 



LIST OP STREETS, &C. 211 

Dutch, is a small street, which leads from John-street to Ful- 
ton-street, between Nassau and William Streets. 

Eden' s-alley , is a small lane, opposite the Baptist Church in 
Gold-street, between John and Fulton Streets. 

Eldridge, which is the third street to the Eastward of the Bow- 
ery, and was formerly called Third-street, leads from 
Division to North-street. 

Elizabeth, is the first street, to the Westward of the Bowery, 
and leads from Bayard to Bleecker Streets. 

Elm, is the first street, East of Broadway, and leads from Reed 
to Spring-street. 

Essex, is the seventh street to the Southeastward of the Bow- 
ery, and extends from Division to North-street. 

Exchange-slip, leads from Broad-street to the East River. 

Exchange, old Slote-lane, widened in rear of the Merchants^ 
Exchange. 

Factory, in Greenwich Village, leads from Christopher-street, 
Northeasterly to Jane-street. 

Fayette, now constitutes a part of Oliver-street, which see. 

Ferry, leads from Gold-street to Pearl-street, opposite the 
head of Peck-slip. 

First, is the first above North-street, and leads from the Bow- 
ery towards the East River. 

Fletcher, is a small street, which leads from No. 212 Pearl- 
street, to the East River. 

Forsyth, which was formerly called Second-stre» t, is the sec- 
ond to the Southeastward of the Bowery. It leads 
from Division to North-street. 

Fourth, leads from the Sixth Avenue to the Bowery, and cros- 
ses Broadway near Vauxhall garden. 

Franklin-square, crosses Pearl-stree!, between Old Slip and 
Broad-street. 

Frankfort, leads from Chatham-street, opposite the Park to 
Pearl-street. 

Franklin, is the third Street above the Hospital, and leads from 
Chapel to Orange-street. It was formerly called 
Sugar-loaf-street. 

Front, the third from the East River, leads from the Battery 
to Corlaer's Hook. 

Fulton, leads from South-street, at the South side of the Ful- 
ton Market, to the North River at the South of Wash- 
ington Market. 

Garden, which lay formerly between Broadway and William- 
street has been lately extended as far as Slote-lane. 
It is the first below William-street. 



212 LIST OP STREETS, &C 

Goerck, is the second from the East river, and leads from Grand 
to North-street. 

Gold, lies between Pearl and William-Streets, and leads from 
Maiden-lane to Frankfort-street. 

Gouverneur, leads from the junction of Division with Grand- 
street, to the East river. 

Grand, is the t ird above St. John's Church, and leads from 
Varick-street to Williamsburgh ferry, on the East- 
river. It is nearly one mile and three quarters in 
Jength, and crosses Broad ay and the Bowery. 

Great-Jones, is a short street, which leads from Broadway, 
opposite Amity-street to the Bowery. 

Green, a lane leading from Liberty-street to Maiden-lane, be- 
tween Nassau and William-streets. 

Greene, is the second to the Westward of Broadway, and leads 
from Canal to Fourth-street. 

Greenwich-lane, runs from Art-street at Pottersfield due North 
to the Eighth Avenue: from thence turning left nearly 
at right angles it leads to the North River. 

Greenwich, runs from the Battery, near the North River, to the 
commencement of the Ninth Avenue. 

Hague, leads from Pearl near Frankfort-street to Skinner- 
street. 

Hammersley, is the fourth above Spring-street, and leads from 
the junction of Bedford and Houston Streets to the 
North River. 

Hammond, is the third above the State prison, and leads from 
G eenwich-lane to the North River 

Hancock, in Greenwich Village, leads from Hammersley and 
Houston-Streets to the union of Herring and Bleecker 
Streets. 

Harrison, which is the second, above Duane-street, leads from 
Hudson-street to the North River. 

Harman, leads from Chatham-square, at Oliver-street, to 
Grand, near Willet-street. 

Henry, is the second street to the Southward of Division- street, 
and leads from Oliver to Grand-street. 

Herring, may be considered as a continuation of Bleecker to 
Christopher-street, in Greenwich Village. 

Hester, leads from the junction of Collect, wih Rhynder-street. 
to Division-street. 

Howard, leads from Rhynder to Mercer-street, crossing Broad- 
way, first above Canal-street. 

Horatio, leads from Greenwich-lane to Greenwich-street. 

Houston, is the second above Spring-street, and leads from 
Broadway to Hamersley-street. 



LIST OP STREETS, &C 213 

Hubert, is the sixth above Duane-street, and leads from Hud- 
son-square to the North-River. 
Hudson, leads from Chamber-street, to the Ninth Avenue, and 

is about a mile and an half long. 
Hudson-square, lies in front of St. John ? s Church, between 
Varick and Hudson Streets, on the East and West, 
and Laight and Beach on the North and South. 
Jacob, is a short street, which leads from Frankfort to Ferry- 
street. 
James, leads from Chatham-square, to the East River. 

Jane, in the village, leads from Greenwich-lane to Greenwich- 
street. 

Jefferson, is the fourth above Catharine-street, and leads from 
Division-street to the East River. 

John, is the first above Maiden-lane, and leads from Broad- 
way, to the East River. 

Jones'-lane, is the first South of the Coffee-house-slip, and leads 
from Front-street to the East River. 

Jones, is in Greenwich Village, and leads from Herring-street 
to the Sixth Avenue. 

King, is the third above Spring-street, and leads from M'Dou- 
gal-street to the North River. 

Laight, leads from Canal-street, along the North side of Hud- 
son-square to the North River. 

Laurens, is the fourth to the Westward of Broadway, and leads 
from Canal, at the head of Chapel-street, to Fourth- 
street. 

Leonard, is the second above the City Hospital, and leads 
from Hudson to Orange-street. 

Le Roy, leads from Hudson-street, in front of the Protestant 
Episcopal Cemetery, to the North River. 

Lewis, is the third from the East River, and leads from Grand- 
to North-street. 

Liberty, extends from Maiden-lane, a little above Pearl-street, 
to the North River, and crosses Broadway, the sec- 
ond above the city Hotel. 

Lispenard, is the first South of Canal-street, and leads from 
Broadway to Chapel-street. 

Lombardy, is the fourth South of Division-street and leads 
from Catharine to Grand-street. 

Ludlow, which was formerly called Sixth-street, is the sixth to 
the Eastward of the Bowery, and leads from Di- 
vision to North-street. 

Lumber, leads from Liberty-street, along the rear of Trinity 
Church, towards the Battery, and terminates at a 
lane which leads into Greenwich-street. 



214 LIST OP STREETS, &C. 

M'Dougal, leads from Spring-street in a Northerly direction* 
and is the seyenth west of Broadway. 

Maiden-lane, is directly opposite to ihe head of Courtland- 
street, and leads from Broadway to the East River. 

Mangin, is contiguous to the East River, and leads from 
Grand to North-Street. 

Market^ formerly East George-street, is the first ahove Cath- 
arine-street and leads from Division-street to the 
East River. 

Market-field, leads from Whitehall-street to the North River. 

Mechanic- Alley , leads from Lombardy to Cherry-street, be- 
tween Market and Pike-Streets. 

Mercer, is the first street to the Westward of Broadway, and 
leads from Canal to Fourth-street. 

Mesiers- Alley, lies between Coenties-slip and Old-slip, and 
leads from Water-street to the East River. 

Mill} is a narrow and irregular ssreet which leads from Broad- 
street, to Stone-street. 

Minetto, in Greenwich Village leads from Bleecher to Carmine- 
Street. 

Montgomery, is the sixth above Catharine-street, and leads 
from Division to the East River. 

Moore, leads from Pearl to South-street, between Whitehall 
and Broad-stre* ts. 

Morton, is the third street, south of the State Prison, and leads 
from Arden-street to the North Uiver. 

Mott, leads from the left side of Chatham-square to Bleecker- 
street and is the second West of the Bowery. 

Mulberry, is the second above Pearl-street, and the third West 
of the Bowery, and leads from Chatham to near 
Bleecker-street. 

Murray, is the third above St. Paul's Church, and leads from 
Broadway, near the City Hall to ihe North River 

Nassau, leads from Wall to Chatham and Frankfort Streets, 
on the East side of the Park. 

New, between Broadway and Broad-street, leads from Wall to 
Beaver-srreet. 

New-slip, that pan of James-street, which leads from Cherry 
f.othe East River. 

Nicholas-William, near Stuyvesant-street,has not been accept- 
ed by the Corporation. 

Norfolk, is the 8th st eet from the Bowery, and leads from Di- 
vision to North-street. 

North, leads from the Bowery to the East River, and is the 
fifth above Grand-street. 



LIST OP STREETS, &C 215 

North-Moore, is the fourth above Duane, and leads from Chap- 
el to the North River. 

Oak, is the second South of Chatham-street, and leads from 
Pearl to Catharine-street. 

Old-slip, leads from the foot of Willliam to the East River, and 
lies between the Coifee-house and Coenties-slip. 

Oliver, is the first street West of Chatham-street, and leads 
from Chatham-square, to the East River. 

Orange, is the first above Pearl-street, and leads Northwardly 
from Chatham to Crosby, near Prince-street. 

Orchard, is the fifth east of the Bowery, and leads from Divis- 
ion to North-street. 

Otter 's-alley, between Grand and Broome Streets, leads 
from Thompson to Sullivan-street. 

Park, leads from Ann :o Be^kman-sereet, along the south side 
of the Park Theatre. 

Park-place, formerly Robinson-street, is the third above St. 
Paul's Church, and leads from Broadway, at the 
park, to the College. 

Pearl, leads from the Battery in a very irregular course to Broad- 
way, direc ly opposite the City Hospital, and in 
length exceeds a mile and a quarter. 

Peek-slip, leads from Ferry at Pearl-street, to the East River. 

Pelham, is a small lane, which leads from Lombardy to Cher- 
ry-street, between Pike and Rutger Streets. 

Pell, is a small street, which leads to the Westward from the 
Bowery to Mott-street. 

Perry, is the second above the State Prison, and leads from 
Greenwich-lane to the North iiiver. 

Pike, is the second above Catharine, and leads from Division 
to the East River. 

Pine, the first above Wall, leads from Broadway, opposite- 
Trinity Church, to the East River. 

Pitt, the tenth East of the Bowery, leads from Divison, at its 
junction with Grand, to North-street. 

Prince, leads from the Bowery to M'Dougal, where it mcet> 
Charlton-street. 

Provost, leads from Chapel, to the North River. 

Pump, leads from Division at Ludlow-street to Walker-street, 
and crosses the Bowery near its commencement. 

Raisin, in Greenwich Village, leads from Bedford street, to- 
wards the Sixth Avenue. 

Rector, leads from Broadway, between Trinity and Grace 
Church, to the East River. 

Reed, the second above the Park, leads from Cross to the North 
river. 



216 LIST OF STREETS, &C. 

Renwick, runs from Canal to Broorae-street between Hudson 
and Greenwich-streets. 

Republican-alley, is a small lane, which leads from the foot of 
Elm and terminates in Reed-street, near Broadway. 

Rhinelanders-alley, near Washington and Beaver Streets, 
leads from Collect, at Hester, to Broome-street. 

Rhynder, leads from Collect, at H* ster to Broome Street. 

Rider } s-alley , leads from Fulton, between Gold and Cliff- 
Streets, to Eden's-alley. 

Ridge, is the twelfth east of the Bowery, and leads from Divis- 
ion to North-street 

Rivington, is the third above Grand-street, and leads from 
the Bowery to the East River. 

Robinson, leads from the rear of the College, to the East River. 

Roosevelt, the first above Pearl-street, leads from Chatham to 
the East River. 

Rose, is the second South of Chatham-street, and leads from 
Frankfort to Pearl-Streets. 

Rutgers, the third above Catharine-street, leads from Division- 
street, to the East River. 

Scammel, leads from the junction of Division with Grand- 
street to the. East River. 

Scott, is above the State Prison, and leads from Greenwich- 
lane to Hudson-street. 

Sheriff, is the fifteenth Street East of the Bowery, and leads 
from Grand to .North Streets. 

Skinnner, a very small street, crosses Frankfort near Pearl- 
street. 

Slote-lane, leads from William, opposite Beaver-street, and 
turning to the right terminates in Pearl-street, nearly 
opposite Coenties' slip. 

South, leads from Whitehall near the Battery, and extends 
along the margin of the East River, towards Cor- 
leer's Hook. 

Spring, is the second above Grand, and leads from the Bow- 
ery to the North River. 

Spruce, leads from the Brick Church, at the Park, to Gold- 
street 

Stanton, is the fourth above Grand-street, and leads from the 
Bowery to the East River. 

Staple, a Small street, leading from Duane to Harison-street, 
between Greenwich and Hudson-street. 

State, leads from Whitehall along the Battery to Broadway. 

St. Johns-alley, is immediately in the rear of 3t. John's 
Church, and leads from Beach to Laight Streets. 

Stone, leads from the Battery to William-street. 



LIST OP STREETS, &C. 21/ 

Sluyvesant, leads from the Third Avenue, near iis beginning 

to the East River. 
Suffolk, the ninth street East of the Bowery, leads from Grand 

to North-Street. 
Sullivan, the sixth West of Broadway, leads from Canal, near 

St. John's Church to Amity-street. 
Temple, a small street in the rear of the City Hotel, leads from 

Thames to Liberty-street. 
Thames, leads from Broadway to Greenwich-street, between 

Trinity Church and the City Hotel. 
Theatre-alley, immediately in the rear of the Park Theatre, 

leads from Ann to Beekman Street. 
Thomas, in the rear of the City Hospital, leads from Church 

to Hudson-street. 
Tompkins, leads from Grand-street, along the East River, to 

Twenty-Third-street, near the Bellevue Hospital. 
'Thompson, is the fifth Street west of Broadway and leads from 

Canal to Fourth. 
Torbert, is an alley, above Catharine-street, which leads from 

Henry to Bancker Streets. 
Vundam, first above Spring-street, leads from Greenwich to 

M'Dougal-street. 
Vandewater, is the third South of Chatham-street and leads 

from Frankfort to Pearl-street. 
Varick, leads from Provost-street to the Episcopal Cemetery. 
Vesey, leads from Broadway, along the North side of St. Paul's 

Church to the North River. 
Wall, leads from Broadway, in Front of the Trinity Church, 

to the East River. The Custom-house, the Tontine 

Coffee-house, most of the Banks and Insurance Of- 
fices are in this street. Here likewise, on the South 

side, a little below William-street, that stately edifice 

to be denominated the " Merchant's Exchange " 

is now building. 
Walker, fifth above the City Hospital, leads from Chapel to 

Collect, where it meets Pump-street. 
Walnut, is the ninth above Catharine-street, and leads from 

Grand-street to the East River. 
Warren, is the fourth above St Paul's Church, and leads from 

Broadway to the North River. 
Washington, the second Street from the North River, leads 

from the Battery to the State Prison and is, in length. 

about two miles. 
Water, the third from the East River, leads from the Batten 

to Corlaer's Hook, and is about two miles in length. 
T 



218 LITERARY AND SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTIONS. 

Watts, leads from Sullivan-street to the North River intersect- 
ing Canal-street obliquely. 

West, when completed, will lead from the Battery, along the 
margin of the North River, towards the State Prison. 

White, the fourth above the hospital, leads from Chapel to Or- 
ange-street. 

Whitehall, leads from the Bowling Green, foot of Broadway, 
to the East River, at the Battery. 

Willet, is the fourteenth street, East of the Bowery, and leads 
from Grand to North-street. 

William, leads from'Pearl at the head of Old Slip and termi- 
nates in Pearl, near Chatham-street. 

Wooster, the third West of Broadway, leads from Canal to 
Fourth-street. 

York, a short street, leads from St. John's-lane, directly in 
rear of St. John's Church, to Chapel-street. 



CHAPTER VI. 

literary and scientifick institutions. 

ColuiMBia College. 

Previous to the year 1754, various acts had been passed by 
the provincial legislature, authorising monies to be raised by 
lotteries for the establishment of a college in this city, and the 
vestry of the Trinity Church had appropriated a parcel of 
ground for the benefit of the proposed institution. In that 
year, Lieut. Governor James Delancey, granted a charter, 
in which the first governors and trustees were mentioned. At 
that period, liberality of sentiment in matters of religion was 
but little known. It is, therefore, with pleasure, that we ob- 
serve the Rector of Trinity Church, the senior Minister of the 
Dutch Church, and the pastors of the Lutheran, French and 
Presbyterian Churches^ by virtue of their office, enumerated 
amongst the Trustees. The college is built on a part of the 
ground given by Trinity Church, which is bounded on the 
North by Murray-street ; on the East by Church-street ; on the 
South by Barclay-street and on the West by the Hudson River. 

The Institution, which was called King's College, was in- 
tended for the instruction of youth in the learned languages 
and in the liberal arts and sciences, and they were authorized 
to confer such degrees on the students or other persons as are 
usually graduated in the English Universities. It was opened 
in 1755 under the presidency of Samull Johnson, S. T. P. 
and the first commencement held in 1758, from which time 



COLUMBIA COLLEGE. 219 

till the year 1776, there had been a commencement annually, 
and this seminary began to rear its head as an establishment, 
which was likely to be of great benefit to the Province ; but dur- 
ing the horrors of war, which raged throughout our country 
from 177^ to 1783, literary Institutions were neccessarily 
abandoned; the students of King's College were dispersed ; the 
Library and Philosophical apparatus belonging to it lodged in 
the City Hall for safe keeping, and the building itself convert- 
ed first into a barrack, and afterwards into a Military Hospital. 

One of the first cares of the legislature after the return of 
peace was to re-organize the college. Accordingly in the year 
1784, they appointed a number of gentlemen under the name 
of" The regents of the University," and to them the es- 
tablishment and superintendence of all seminaries of literature, 
throughout the state, were in some measure committed. They 
were, likewise, to act as Trustees of the College. Soon af- 
ter they had entered on the duties of their office, they appoint- 
ed the necessary professors for instructing the students in the 
languages, logic and rhetorick, moral philosophy, mathematics 
and natural philosophy, and it was in complete operation to- 
wards the end of the year. In April 1787, the legislature con- 
firmed the royal charter, without making any alterations, ex- 
cept such as were necessary to adopt it to the new state of af- 
fairs. Its name was changed from King's to Columbia Col- 
lege. At the same time twenty nine gentlemen of eminent 
literary abilities were appointed by the name and stile of" The 
Trustees op Columbia College." These were to contin- 
ue in office till they should, by death, resignation or removal, 
be reduced to twenty four, which is declared to be the perma- 
nent number, and they are vested with the power of filling up 
such vacancies as may from time to time occur in that body. — 
The President of the College is ex officio a member of the 
Board of Trustees. 

There is no college in the United States, in which so much 
classical and other knowledge is exacted of a candidate for 
admission as in this. 

The following are the terms of admission according to the 
statute , of 1821 which is still in force. 

"Greek and Latin Grammar and Prosody ; Cae&ar's Com- 
mentaries of the Gallic Wars, except the last book ; the Ora- 
tions of Cicero against Cataline ; the Oration for the poet Ar- 
chias, and the Oration for Marcellus ; the first eight books of 
Virgil's ^Eneid; the first five books of Livy ; the Gospel of St. 
Luke and St. John, and the Acts of the Apostles ; Dalzel's 



220 COLDMBIA COLLEGE. 

Collectanea Minora ; the first three books of Xenophon's Cyio- 
pedia ; and the first three books of Homer's Iliad. The can- 
didate shall also be able to translate English into grammatical 
Latin ; and shall be well versed in the first four rules of Arith- 
metic, the rule of three direct and inverse, decimal and vulgar 
fractions ; with Algebra as far as the end of simple equations ; 
and with modern Geography. The classical examination to 
be ad aperturam libri" 

Agreeably to the same statute, no student shall be admitted 
in an upper class without being master of the previous part of 
the course ; nor shall any student be admitted from another 
college without being duly qualified, nor without a certificate 
from said college of his good character. The circumstance of 
so much preparatory knowledge being required previous to ad- 
mission, has certainly a great tendency to prevent the college 
from increasing in numbers ; as has also the peremptory rule, 
which prevents students at the concluding examination, who are 
not qualified, from proceeding to a higher class ; but we are al- 
ready taught by experience, that the true anH essential prosper- 
ity"of the (nstitution, in a great measure, depends upon the due 
enforcing of both. By a strict adherence to the first, such a mass 
of natural incompetency will be excluded as to leave compara- 
tively but little further obstruction, which shall not arise from 
negligence^ and if negligence be punished b*. degradation to a 
lower class and ultimately by expulsion, it will convince all fu- 
ture students, that they must both have faculties to cultivate and 
industry to labour in their cultivation, or that Columbia Col- 
lege will be no place for them. 

The annual commencement, which is generally held in Trin- 
ity Church, is on the first Tuesday in August. There is a vaca- 
tion from the day of the commencement until the first Monday 
in October, on which day the regular course of study com- 
mences. The candidates for admission are examined during 
the week previous. There is likewise an intermission on the 
fourth of July, twenty fifth of November, and from twenty 
fourth December to second of January. These are the only 
intermissions of study in the whole year. There are two ex- 
aminations in every year. The one, which begins on the first 
Tuesday in March is called the intermediate examination and 
the other, which commences on the first Tuesday in July is 
the concluding examination of an Academical year. The con- 
cluding examination of the Senior Class, however, takes place 
about two weeks earlier, and the remainder of their collegiate 
course is devoted by them to preparation for the duties of com- 
mencement. 



COLUMBIA COLLEGE. 221 

The examinations are close and rigid, every student being 
left to stand or fall upon his own merits, and at the close of 
every examination, the students are ranked, according to their 
respective deserts. Honorary testimonials of the first, sec- 
ond and third grades decorated with the seal of the college, 
and with suitable devices are adjudged, at the concluding ex- 
amination to such students as have most distinguished them- 
selves ; and the names of the students, who have obtained such 
testimonials, are pronounced by the President at the public 
commencement. The testimonials themselves are conferred 
in the College Chapel in presence of the Trustees and Stu- 
dents of the Institution, at the first regular meeting of the form- 
er after the opening of the next Academical year. 

The college was repaired in the year 1818 — 19 with great 
taste and elegance, and besides dwelling houses for the accom- 
modation of the President and Professors, contains the neces- 
sary lecture rooms, the chapel, the library, apartments for the 
philosophical and chemical apparatus and rooms for the meet- 
ings of some literary societies formed by the students for their 
mutual improvement. The College Green near the centre of 
which the College stands, is one of the most delightful spots in 
our city. 

The library, then in its infancy, soon after the organization 
of the college in 1754, received a valuable addition from Jo- 
seph Murray, Esq. Counsellor at Law, and one of the first 
trustees, who left the instution his large library and almost 
the whole of his fortune estimated at $25,000. Since that pe- 
riod, except during the revolutionary war, the library has 
been constantly progressing and, at present, contains about 
6000 volumes, many of which are scarce and valuable and the 
whole selected with care and judgment. The President and 
Professors, as well as the students of the two higher classes, 
are entitled to use them. 

The number of students is between one hundred and thirty 
and one hundred and forty. 

The present is the faculty of arts 
Rev. William Harris, D. D. President. 

John AFVickar, D. D. Professor of Moral Philosophy, 

Political Economy, Rhetorick, Belles Lettres, &c. 
Nathaniel F. Moore, LL. D. Professor of the Greek and 

Latin Languages. 
Charles Anthon, A. M. Adjunct Professor of the Greek and 

Latin Languages. 
James Renwick, A. M. Professor of Natural and Experi- 
mental Philosophy, and Chemistry. 

T2 



222 COLUMBIA COLLECE. 

Henry I. Anderson, M. D. Professor of Mathematics and 
Natural Philosophy. 

The following is a list of the learned gentlemen, who have 
been Presidents from the first organization of the college to the 
present period, with the dates, when they entered on the du- 
ties of their office, respectively. 

1754. Samuel Johnson, S. T. D. 

1763. Rev. Myles Cooper. 

1775. Rev. Mr. Benjamin Moore, (afterwards Bishop^ 
pro tern, in the absence of the president. 

1787. William Samuel Johnson, LL. D. being the first 
President after the Revolutionary War. 

1801. Rev. Charles Wharton, S. T. D. who resigned a 
few months after his appointment. 

1801. The Right Rev. Benjamin Moore, S. T. D. 

1811. The Rev. William Harris, S. T. D. the present 
worthy incumbent. 

From the year 181 1 to the year 1 8 If), the Rev. John M. Ma- 
son, S. T. D. was Provost, since which time the office has been 
abolished. 

I shall conclude this article by observing, that there are in 
this college a president and five professors, who fill their res- 
pective stations, with honour to themselves and advantage to 
the students ; and as the preparation required at admission as 
well as the course of studies pursued in this seminary are far 
more extensive than in any other in the United States and its dis- 
cipline sufficiently energetic, there is no doubt of its increasing 
rapidly in reputation and usefulnesss, and of its long remaining 
a noted seat of arts, sciences aad polite literature. 

The Society op the Alu3ini op Columbia College. 

This society was formed on the first Wednesday of May* 
1825, being the anniversary of the day, on which the annual 
commencement was formerly celebrated. The right of mem- 
bership is exclusively confined to those, who have been educa- 
ted at and received academic degrees from this college, and 
amongst their number, there are a great many of our most 
distinguished citizens. The objects of this institution are to 
perpetuate the remembrance of those happy days, which the 
members had spent in their juvenile years, whilst pursuing 
their studies within these walls, to cement that friendship 
which ought ever to exist between those who had imbibed the' 
elements of polite learning from the same Alma Mater ; to de- 
vote annually some innocent and joyous hours, in recalling to 
mind the pleasure of their early days and to take into consid- 



NEW-YORK SOCIETY LIBRARY. 223 

elation the most effectual means of diffusing the principles of 
science and virtue throughout our happy land. 

On Wednesday, May 3d, 1826, the second anniversary of 
this Institution was celebrated in the College Hall, where 
an excellent oration was delivered, at noon by William 
Bard, Esq. of Hyde Park, Dutchess County, in presence of a 
large number of graduates and many respectable ladies and 
gentlemen, among whom were his Excellency, Gov. Clinton, 
(a former graduate) and lady, Rt. Rev. Bp. Hobart, &c. This 
discourse, which aimed at practical results, arrested and reward- 
ed the attention of his audience, for a full hour. He took into 
consideration the effect of the common school system of edu- 
cation upon our agriculturists, and after examining the opera- 
tion of that system, and the inadequate, not to say evil results 
arising from it suggested a modification thereof in the establish- 
ment of county academies of higher aims than the district 
schools, but which should nevertheless be filled from those 
schools. The subject was quite interesting and a copy request- 
ed and obtained for publication. 

It is expected, that the delivery of an address upon some 
literary topic will always constitute a part in the celebration 
of the anniversary of this society and from the splendid talents 
of many of its memmbers, they can be at no loss for a speaker 
duly qualified for the undertaking. Many of the sentiments, 
which will be expressed upon these occasions, will no doubt, 
relate to the best mode of diffusing useful learning and may 
tend greatly to ameliorate the condition of our fellow citizens. 
In the afternoon, about ninety of the Alumni dined in the 
College Hall, and after spending the day in the most pleasing 
manner, adjourned in hopes, that their next anniversary might 
be attended with equal intelligence, and animated with like 
good feeling. 



New- York Society Library. 

The Hall, in which this institution is kept, is the second 
story of a spacious brick building, whleh Mas erected shout 
the year 1776, in Nassau-s(reet, opposite the Middle Dutch 
church, between Cedar and Liberty-streets. 

The first commencement of such an institution in this city 
was 1000 volumes, which were bequeathed to the Society, for 
propagating the Gospel in foreign parts, by thfi Rev. Dr. Mill- 
ingtou, rector of JNewington, England. Mr. Humphrey 
the society's secretary, in a letter, dated 23d September, l72B a 
informed our governor, John Montgomerie, Esq. that the society 
intended to place these books iu Neiv-York, as a library for the 



224 NEW-YORK SOCIETY LIBRARY. 

use of the clergy aod gentlemen of this, and the neighbouring 
provinces of Connecticut, New- Jersey and Pennsylvania, and 
requested the governor to recommend to the assembly to provide 
a proper place of deposit for them, and to concur in the pass- 
ing of an act, for the preservation of these and others, which 
might be added. The assembly, on receiving the governor's 
communication on the subject, laid it before the Common Coun- 
cil, who in June, 1729, agreed to provide a proper place for the 
reception of the books which were accordingly sent over soon 
after. The greatest part of them were upon theological sub- 
jects, and many were lost by the carelessness of those to whom 
they were intrusted. Still, however, some very scarce and 
valuable books of this collection, are now in the City Library. 

In 1 754, a numberof gentlemen went round with a subscrip- 
tion, for the purpose of establishing a public library on a gene- 
ral plan, for this city, and its vicinity, and in a few days, col- 
lected about §1,250, with which sum about 700 volumes of 
new and well chosen books were purchased. According to 
the original articles of association, the price of a share, which 
was assignable, was .f 12 50, and the sum of $1 50, was to be 
paid anuuallj 7 . The books were deposited in the same room 
as these given by the aforesaid society. 

On the 25th, Nov. 1772, the society was incorporated, during 
the administration of Gov. William Try on, by the name of " The 
Trustees of the Neio-York Society Library." By this charter, 
the terms of membership as agreed upon by its founders were 
confirmed. The care of the institution was then, as now, entrust- 
ed to twelve trustees, annually elected on the last Tuesday 
in April, and the society was empowered to purchase and 
hold estates, provided the yearly value did not exceed £l 000 
sterling, ($4 444) over and above all out goings, as also that 
they might erect a library to be called "The New-York Socie- 
ty Library." Every thing now seemed favourable to the 
Institution. It was rapidly eucreasing in members, as well as 
m the number of books; but a dreadful storm was at hand. 
The revolutionary war broke out, and during the seven years 
that it raged, the principal part of the books were scattered 
or destroyed. 

But in the year 1784, the library was revived, and since 
that period has arrived at its present state of respectability. It 
now contains (May 1826,) upwards of 18 000 volumes, com- 
prising the works of the most eminent authors, both ancient 
and modern ; many of them choice and splendid editions, 
and which are not to be found in the collection of an individual. 
And as the funds of the society are now in a prosperous state, 



NEW-YORK SOCIETY LIBRARY. 220 

the debt, which had been contracted by the erecting, and sub- 
sequent addition to the building, being nearly discharged, the 
trustees have it in their power, to furnish the library with many 
valuable books, which are sought for by the scholar and man of 
learning, and to gratify the growing taste and literary curiosity 
of the public, by procuring a ready supply of recent periodi- 
cal publications, as well as the more expensive works of sci- 
ence. It, therefore, amounts to a certainty that the library 
will from year to year, become more extensively useful, and 
inviting to the citizens in general. The price of a share is only 
$25 and the annual subscription $4 and when the benefits, 
which result from the possession of a share, are taken into con- 
sideration, it is surprising, that any enlightened citizen, who can 
afford it and who is not already a subscriber, should hesitate to 
purchase an interest, which will be annually encreasing in va- 
lue, and may like any other kind of property, be tiansferred 
at pleasure. 

The regular meetings of the trustees, are held at the library 
room, on the first Wednesday in May, August, November, 
Febmaiy, and April. Seven are a quorum to transact business. 
At the first stated meeting of the trustees, after every annual 
election, they appoint a treasurer, secretary, and librarian, to 
the two first of which offices, none except members of the 
society a*-e eligible. At the same meeting, they, likewise, ap- 
point a library committee, consisting of three trustees, whose du- 
ty it is to inspeci the state of the library, to purchase books for 
it, to dispose of such as are worn out or defaced, and to take up- 
on themselves the general superintendence of the library. 

It is the duty of the librarian, to attend daily from 10 o'clock 
in the forenoon, to 3 in the afternoon, (except Sunday,) the 
4th of July, and a few other holidays, for the purpose of de- 
livering to, and receiving books from the members ; of keep- 
ing the library in the neatest and best manner ; of collecting the 
annual payments, and such forfeitures as may have been in- 
curred &c. During the hours, that the library is kept open,, 
members may remain in the room to r^d books as long as they 
think proper. 

Trustees. 

Elected in April 1826. 

Edward W. Laight. John Ferguson. 

Rt Rev. John H. Hobart. John J. morgan. 

Gulian C. Verplank. Anthonv Bleecker, 

Charles Drake, Dawid S. Jones. 



22G MECHANIC AND TRADESMEN'S LIBRARY, &C. 

James Renwick. Ezra Weeks. 

Evert A. Banker. John R. B. Rodgers. 

John J. Morgan Treasurer, Anthony Bleeeker Secretary. 
Burtus Scidmore Librarian. 

General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen. 
Their Library and School. 

This society was formed in the year 1784, and was then, as 
it has been since, exclusively confined to mechanics or trades- 
men resident within thi3 city and county. The object of the 
association, was to promote harmony and brotherly love 
amongst its members ; to raise funds for the relief of the ne- 
cecessitous, and for the support of the widows and children of 
those, who might die in indigent circumstances; as also to con- 
fer the blessings of education upon the children of poor or de- 
ceased members, whose situation may render the aid of the 
society requisite. 

This institution was constituted a body politic, by an act of 
the legislature, 14th, March 1792, which terminated by its own 
limitation in April 1812. Previous to that period, however, 
the charter was renewed, and is to remain in force till the first 
Monday in April 1833. The officers of this society are a 
President, two vice Presidents, a Secretary, Treasurer, Col- 
lector, 4 members, who constitute the Finance, and Loan com- 
mittee, and four almoners, who together with a door keeper, 
are annually elected by ballot, on the first Wednesday in De- 
cember. 

Their charter gives them very extensive powers, and allows 
them to hold real and personal estate to the value of two hun- 
dred thousand dollars. 

This institution has, in respect to its utility, far exceeded 
the most sanguine expectations of its founders. Poor members, 
when afflicted by disease or superannuated, are relieved as far 
as the state of the funds will admit. The widows of members, 
when entered ou the pension list receive $ 25 per annum, and 
$ 5 for every child under 14 years of age, and every orphan 
placed on the same list, is allowed $ 15 per annum, until he or 
she shall arrive at. the age of 1 4 years. 

Thus far, they had done well; but here their benevolence 
did not terminate. In Nov. 1820 they resolved to establish a 
school, for the gratuitous education, in whole, or in part, of the 
children of deceased or other members, whose situation requir- 
ed it, and applied to the legislature, for an amendment to their 



MERCANTILE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION. 227 

charter, authorising the expenditure of money for that object, 
and also for the establishment of a library, for the use of ap- 
prentices of mechanics in this city, which was accordingly 
granted, 26th, January 1821. 

Upou the receipt of this act, they forthwith passed a law, 
for the maintenance and support of a School and Lierary, 
to be kept in 5 the " Mechanic Institution" in Chamber-street. 
For the management of the former, 12 members are annually 
appointed and designated, " The school committee." The 
number of pupils in this seminary at present, (1826) is 70 males, 
and 50 females, who are taught in separate apartments. Total 
120. 

The Library is committed to the care of six members, de- 
nominated, "The Library Committee" Independent of books 
purchased by the society for the use of this institution, many 
respectable donations have been made to it, by benevolent indi- 
viduals. The present number of volumes amounts to 8000, 
In the year 1812, this society erected that large, and commodi- 
ous building at the corner of Broadway and Park-Place, for- 
merly called Mechanic Hall, now Park place House. It is 
kept by Mr. W. B. Page, stands in a most agreeable situa- 
tion, and is one of the most genteel hotels in the city. In 
the year 1821, they also built that spacious and convenient 
house, situated in Chamber, between Chatham, and Augustus- 
streets, called "The Mechanic's Institution" in which, 
as we he have already observed, their school and library are 
kept. Here is, likewise the hall, in which they hold all their 
meetings, for the transaction of business. 

Each person on joining the society, pays $ 10, initiation 
fees, and $ 12 more in 3 equal annual installments; or the 
depositing the sum of $ 20, with the treasurer at the time of 
admissions, exempts from all future payments. 

The total number of members admitted into this society, 
from its organization to 1st, of January 1826, is 1515. 

The Mercantile Library Association. 

On the 27th, November, 1820, a society was instituted un- 
der this name, by the Merchants' clerks of this city. They 
were led to this measure, from a desire to adopt the most effi- 
cient means of facilitating mutual intercourse, to extend their 
information upon mercantile and other subjects of general 
utility, — to promote a spirit of useful inquiry, and to qualify 
themselves to discharge with dignity the duties of their profes- 
sion, and the social offices of life, 



228 CIRCULATING LIBRARIES. 

Actuated by these laudable motives, they have been liberal- 
ly patronized by a generous public, whose friendly aid, in ad- 
dition to the funds raised by their own contributions, have ena- 
bled them in less than five years, to establish a library contain- 
ing 3000 volumes, on the most useful and interesting subjects. 
The library room,;between Ferry and Frankfort, in Cliff-street, 
is open every evening, (Sundays excepted,) from 6 o'clock, un- 
til 10, from 1st, October to 1st, April, and from half-past 7 to 
10 o'clock, during the remainder of the year. 

The officers of this association are a president, vice president, 
secretary, and nine directors, who are annually elected, on the 
first Tuesday of November. These constitute a board of di- 
rection, and meet at least, once a month, for the transaction of 
business. Any person engaged in mercantile business as a 
clerk, may, if approved of, by a majority of the said board be- 
come a member of the association, on paying an initiation fee 
of one dollar, and the further sum of one dollar semiannually, 
so long as he shall continue a member. Any member commenc- 
ing business on his own account, is entitled to the privileges of 
an honorary member ; by continuing the contribution of one 
dollar, semi annually. The number of members, is now about 
1000. Our merchants appear disposed to promote this excel- 
lent institution, as besides donations in books, they have given 
since its establishment in 1820, the sum of $1692 in money, 
of which the sum of $715, was bestowed in (he year 1825. 

Besides these three libraries and these of Columbia Colledge, 
and the General Theological Seminary, which have been al- 
ready mentioned, similar institutions are attached to each of the 
following and perhaps to a few others, viz. to the American 
Academy of Fine Arts, the New- York Lyceum, the Literary 
and Philosophical Society, the City Hospital, the Historical 
Society, the Medical Society, the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons, and the Athenaeum, of all which notice will be taken 
under the account of these societies respectively. We have, 
likewise a number of. 

Circulating Libraries, of which the following are the most 
distinguished, viz. that belonging to A. T. Goodrich, No. 124 
Broadway, corner of Cedar-street, which is the first of the 
kind established in this city ; the Minerva circulating Library 
283 Broadway, opposite Washington Hall, of which W. B. 
Gilley is proprietor; one kept at No. 4 Chamber-street, owned 
by Mr. Ed. M. Murden ; the Bowery Circulating Library, No. 
76 Bowery, of which Mr. Caleb Bartlett is proprietor ; one at 
No. 403J Broadway, owned by Mr. T. Whybrew. The 
Franklin Library No. 415 Broadway, of which Mr. Lock- 



CIRCULATING LIBRARIES. 229 

wood is proprietor; one by Mr. John Montgomery, No. 182 
Greenwich-street; Mr. James Collins, Greenwich, near Vesey 
street, besides several others conducted on a less extensive 
scale, which it would be too tedious to enumerate. 

Reading Rooms. We have two such establishments in this 
City. 

1st. Those attached to the Athanaeum, which are kept in 
spacious and commodious apartments in Broadway corner of 
Pine-street. But as this institution is as yet in its infancy, it 
cannot be expected, that its collection of books is very exten- 
sive; yet they already amount to a considerable number, and 
are rapidly increasing. 

2d. Mr. S. C. Schenk, has a valuable and extensive collec- 
tion of books, &c. entitled " The Parthenon Circulating Library 
and Reading Room," kept under Peale's Museum, No. 252 
Broadway opposite the City Hall. In this establishment, there 
are upwards of seventy foreign and American periodical jour- 
nals, all the Morning and Evening Papers of this city, the most 
important Newspapers of the United States and of Canada, &c, 

Thus our citizens are blessed in a peculiar manner, with 
the means of instruction in religion, and in every depart- 
ment of literature and science. There are places of religious 
worship, sufficient for the accommodation of persons of all de- 
nominations, and numbers of excellent societies instituted for 
the purpose of diffusing and establishing the important princi- 
ples of virtue and morality. Our seminaries of learning, from 
our primary schools, to our academies and college, are upon an 
excellent footing, and the means of obtaining for his children a 
*>ood common education, is put in the power of the most indir- 
pent individual. The road to knowledge, morality and religion, 
is thrown open to all, and the inhabitants of this metropolis 
have only themselves to blame, if they be not as enlightened, 
moral and religious a people as any upon the face of the globe. 
It is true, that in this, as in all other great cities, there are many 
allurements to dissipation and vice, and that the young and 
unwary run great danger of plunging into scenes of immorali- 
ty, from the dreadful effects of bad example. But if there 
be many dangerous companions in this city, it is the 
duty of every young man to shun them, as he would the de- 
vouring pestilence ; for he may rest assured, that if (i a man can- 
not take tire in his bosom and his clothes not be burni ; nor go 
upon hot coals and his feet not be burnt," it is as impossible foi 
him to associate with the wicked, without his morals being co/i-, 
taminated. 

U 



230 newspapers, authors, &c. 

Newspapers, &c. 

Our city is abundantly supplied with these sources of infor- 
mation. We have ten Daily Papers, of which six are publish- 
ed in the morning, and four in the afternoon. We have, like- 
wise, a number of semi-weekly and Weekly Papers, and some 
magazines. 

The Morning Daily Papers are the New-York Gazette, the 
Mercantile Advertiser, the National Advocate?, the Daily 
Advertiser, the New- York National Advocate, and the Times. 

The Afternoon, or as they are commonly called Evening 
Papers, are the Commercial Advertiser, the Evening Post, the 
Statesman, and the American. The price of a daily paper, 
whether morning or evening, is ten dollars per annum. 

The semi-Weekly Papers, are seven in number, viz. the 
Spectator, which is issued from the office of the Commercial 
Advertiser, The New-York Evening Post for the Country. 
The American, The Statesman, The National Advocate, The 
Daily Advertiser, and The New-York National Advocate, each 
of which are, likewise, headed for the Country. 

The Weekly Papers, are The New- York Price Current. 
The New-York Observer, The Albion, The Globe & Emerald^ 
The Religious Chronicle, The New-York Mirror and Ladies 
Literary Gazette, and The American Athanaeum, (both of 
which are Literary journals.) The Truth Teller, (a Roman Car 
tholic paper,) The Telescope, The Courier, The Representa- 
tive, The Recueil, (a French paper,) The Bee Hive, The 
Christian Inquirer, The Spy and Dramatic Repository, The 
American Preacher. The Christian Herald is published once 
a fortnight. 

Magazines. Of these, we have the following, viz. The New- 
York Review and Athanaeum Magazine, The Methodist Maga- 
zine, The Dutch Church Magazine, each of which is published 
monthly, and the New-York Medical and Physical Journal, 
which is published quarterly by Drs. Beck, Pe'ixotto and Belt 

Authors, Printers, Booksellers, &c. 

The high prices of paper and labour in Great Britain, has been 
very favourable to authors, and the publication of books on this 
side of the Atlantic. A duty of 15 percent is laid, on all foreign 
publications which, with other expenses, occasions them to be 
sold, at an advanced price, when they are imported into this 
country. To encourage the domestic manufacture of paper, 
a law was passed by Congress in 1804, exempting all foreign 
tags from the payment of duty. These circumstances have 



AUTHORS, BOOKSELLERS, &C. 231 

tombined to give a great spring to the manufacture of paper, 
as well as to the printing of books, pamphlets and news papers. 
Of paper, a sufficiency is now made amongst ourselves, to 
render its importation unnecessary, and a vast quantity is manu- 
factured annually, some part of which is equal to any imported. 
At Springfield, New-Jersey, about sixteen miles from this city, 
there are no less than fifteen paper mills. Of these, Samuel 
Campbell, Esquire of this city, is a large proprietor. The 
business of casting type, as well as that of stereotype, is carri- 
ed on here to a vast extent, and printing presses are made in 
the best manner, and in the newest and most approved mode. 
Thus we have not only the typographical art, but every branch 
connected with it, carried on to great perfection amongst 
ourselves. 

From these circumstances, authors find it easy to publish 
their original works, and publishers proceed with equal facility 
in the reprinting of foreign works. The printers and book- 
sellers in this city, employ large capitals in publishing original 
works, as well as those, which have been printed in Europe, 
and many of them have been well remunerated for their enter- 
prise. It may be asserted without fear of contradiction, that 
there is no art, in which greater improvements has been made 
in this city, than in that of printing and book-binding. Here 
many works have been published, which, in point of the good- 
ness of the materials and the elegance of workmanship are 
equal to the best editions, which have been imported from 
Europe. As many of our youth are engaged in those studies, 
which are necessary to prepare them for the learned professions, 
the demand for the Greek and Latin classies had become very 
great ; but there is now no necessity for their importation, as 
the writings of Caesar, Cicero, Virgil, Salust, Ovid, Horace, <£c. 
have been published here in a correct and handsome manner. 
Those editions, which have been published under the inspec- 
tion of the late Peter Wilson, lld. Professor of Languages, 
and of Charles Anthon, a. m. adjunct professor of the Greek 
and Latin languages, in Columbia College are greatly esteemed 
on account of their accuracy. The latter of these gentlemen, 
prepared for the press a new edition of Potter's Grecian Anti- 
quities, which is far superior to that work, when it came from 
the hands of its learned author ; one of Lampriere's Classical 
Dictionary, which is universally acknowledged to contain so 
many improvements, as to render it a much more valuable work 
than the best edition, which had been issued from any Europe- 
an press, and Valpy's Greek Grammar, which may be con- 
sidered as a work entirely new. They are justly esteemed as 



^.32 AUTHORS, BOOKSELLERS, &C. 

a valuable addition te the standard books used in Columbia 
College, and in many other of our Colleges and higher semi- 
naries of learning. 

For the assistance of beginners in the study of the Latin 
language, Mr. George Long, one of our most enterprising prin- 
ters and book-sellers, has caused two of the most valuable of 
the initiatory school-books to be prepared in a new and very 
useful manner, J mean the little volume commonly called 
Historia Sacra, to which is added a Dictionary of all the 
words contained in that book and no more, with their deriva- 
tions and compositions, By George Ironside, a. m. teacher of 
languages- formerly of this city, now of the District of Colum- 
bia, and Viri Ro?nw, the book which is, in general, put into the 
hands of students immediately before their entering on the 
Classical Writers, executed in the same manner, By James 
Hardie, a. m. 

These two books no sooner made their appearance, than 
they met with the approbation of most of our classical teachers, 
and their utility in accelerating the progress of the pupil, and 
facilitating the labour of theteacher, is now souniversally estab- 
lished, that they are used in most academies and grammar 
schools throughout the United States. Mr. Long, who holds the 
copy rights of both, perceiving their very extensive circulation, 
caused them to be carefully revised, corrected and stereotyped. 
The proof shests were examined with the greatest attention, by 
gentlemen well qualified for the undertaking, and neither pains 
nor expenses were spared to render them as free from errors as 
possible. But several Greek as well as Latin books have been, 
of late years, printed in this city. Valpy's grammar has been 
already noticed, to which may be added the Greek Testament, 
Graeca Minora, the Greek Prosody, by Dr. Peter Wilson, 
Lucian's Dialogues, Homer's Iliad, &c. Many valuable ex- 
pensive European works have, likewise, been printed here, of 
which I shall only mention a very few, Shakespeare's works, 
and Rollin's Ancient History ,both stereotyped, Blair's Lectures, 
and sermons, Volney's works, Goldsmith's works, the Specta- 
tor, Swift's works, &c. &c. while the or iginal works printed here 
in this city, are almost innumerable 

The following are the principal publishers, who are arranged 
in the order, in which it is believed, that they severally began 
business in that line, Messieurs Evert Duyckinck, Thomas and 
James Swords, Daniel D. Smith, George Long, Collins and co. 
Collins and Hannay, William B. Gilley, Henry I. Magarey, and 
William Borrodaile. 

On the whole, as New- York holds by far, the most distin- 
guished rank amongst her sister States, in a commercial point 



PRIVATE SCHOOLS, ACADEMIES, &C. 233 

of view, she is not behind any of them in regard to the busi- 
ness of printing. Hence this city may be considered as the 
best mart in the United States, for the manufactory and sale 
of books. 

Private Schools, Academies, Public Schools, and the 

High-School. 

It is much to the credit of our City, that the system of in- 
struction in our common schools has of late years, heen greatly 
improved. Of our teachers, there are many of irreproachable 
morals, and good natural talents, well cultivated by educa- 
tion, who have embarked in the arduous business of tuition, 
from a conviction, that, in that profession, they could render a 
most important service to the community, by initiating the 
young and rising generation in the principles of virtue and 
useful knoAvledge. We accordingly f»od, at an examination of 
a juvenile school, under the care of s ich an instructor, a num- 
ber of children of both sexes, about die age of 10 or 12, who 
can not only read in a graceful manr.er, but satisfy us, that they 
understand what they read, who write legibly and with great 
neatness, and who by the promptitude and correctness of their 
answers convince their visiters, that they are well acquainted 
with the elements of English grammar, geography, and history ; 
und those who are somewhat more advanced in years, display 
their skill in arithemetic, mathematics, composition, belles let- 
tres,&c. thus affording their relations the most pleasing prospect, 
that they will, by God's blessing, at no distant period, become 
useful members of society. Such seminaries as these, are of 
great importance in a free country, and the reflection is highly 
gratifying, that there are not a few such in this city. It is much 
to be regretted, however, that out of about 300 minor schools, 
which have been ascertained to exist in this city, there are 
many of them taught by persons without the necessary qualifi- 
tions for the discharge of their important trust, and in some in- 
stances of doubtful morals. 

With respect to academics or other classical seminaries, we 
have a number, which are under the care of gentlemen of un- 
blemished reputation, and of great professional pre-eminence. 
As a proof of their success in this honourable employment, it 
is only necessary to mention, that they have prepared a number 
of youth for Columbia and other colleges, and from the man- 
ner, in which they have in general, accquitted themselves, at 
their examinations as candidates for admission, there is no rea- 
son to call in question the industry, or abilities of the teachers. 

IT 2 



234 PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

From what has been said respecting our pay schools, it ap« 
pears, that they might, for a number of years, have been divid- 
ed into two classes. 1st. Those, in which the system of educa- 
tion is excellent ; but the price high. 2d, Those in which the 
masters being incompetent to their duty, the pupils get little in- 
struction, and the teachers a small compensation for their servi- 
ces. The expenses of the first do not suit the poor man's 
pocket, and if he send his child to the last/he runs a great 
risk of paying his money for nothing, Charity schools had 
been established by several respectable congregations ; but as 
the benefits of these seminaries were confined to the children of 
such persons as were members of these congregations respec- 
tively, there were many, who were necessarily excluded. 
To obviate this difficulty, a society was incorporated by an 
act of the legislature, passed 9th April 1805, under the name 
of " The society for establishing a Free school in the city of 
i\ew-York, for the education of such poor children as do not 
belong to, or are not provided for by any religious society." 
This institution has, no doubt, been very beneficial to those, for 
whose benefit it was organized, and in the year 1825, instead of 
one Free School, the number had increased to six, all of which 
were in a flourishing condition. The teachers were indefatiga- 
ble, as well as intelligent ; and the progress of their pupils was 
highly satisfactory. But in March, 1826, our legislature, 
at the solicitation of the trustees, passed an act, entitled " an 
act in relation to the Free school Society of New- York' 7 where- 
by it was enacted amongst other things, that the said society 
shall hereafter be known by the name of" The Public School 
Society of New-York." 

Of the circumstances, which induced the Trustees, to wish 
for this, and some other alterations in their charter, I cannot 
do better than lay before my readers an abridgment of 
their address to the public, relative to the subject. Their 
reasons are so satisfactory, that men of intelligence will readily 
admit that they have made a very important improvement, in 
the mode of conducting our common schools. 

They begin by stating, that on the 1st. April (1826,) the semi- 
naries under their charge had ceased to be charity schools, and 
that the following rates of tuition were established, viz. 

For the alphabet, spelling and writing on slates, 25 cents per 
quarter. 

Continuance of the above with reading and arithmetical 
tables, at 50 cents per quarter. 

Continuance of the last with writing on paper, arithmetic, and 
definitions $1 per quarter. 

The preceding with grammar, geography, and the use of 



PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 235 

maps and globes, book-keeping, history, composition, mensura- 
tion, astronomy, &c, $2 per quarter. No additional charge is 
made for instruction in needle work, nor for fuel, books, or 
stationary. u It is not" say they, 4 ' expected that these charges 
will defray the expenses of the institution. The main reliance 
must be placed upon the common school funds.''* The follow- 
ing are the reasons, which induced the legislature to adopt the 
new arrangement. 

1st. To remove the imputation of charity scholars, which 
was applied to the pupils of the free schools, in consequence of 
restricting their admission, to such children as were the objects 
of a gratuitous education, and which induced some patents 
rather to sutler their children to grow up in ignorance, than to 
send them to a free school. 

2d. To substitute the spacious, well regulated monitorial semi- 
naries, conducted by duly examined and qualified teachers, 
under the constant supervision of a board of trustees, and of the 
public authorities, in the place of the numerous minor pay 
schools, with which this city abounds, and in which, in too 
many instances, the time of the pupil, and the earnings of the 
parent are wasted, not in the acquisition of learning and virtue $ 
but of habits of idleness and insubordination 

3d To create and foster in the less affluent classes of society, 
a spirit of self-respect, and laudable pride, inducing them to 
reject as the gift of charity, what they could command as the 
price of honest labour. 

With the view of accommplishing these desirable objects, 
and of extending as far as possible, the system of elementary 
education, upon which the good order of the city so essentially 
depends, the legislature have directed with the unanimous ap- 
proval of the society, of the school commissioners and of the 
corporation. 1st. That the free schools, shall be convert- 
ed into public schools. 2d. That it shall be the duty of the pub* 
lie school society to provide, so far as their means may extend, 
for the education of all children in the city of New-York, not 
otherwise provided for, whether such children be or be not the 
proper objects of gratuitous education, and without regard to 
the religious sect or denomination, to which such children or 
their parents may belong. 3d. That it shall be lawful for the 
trustees, to require of the pupils moderate tuition fees, to be ap- 
plied to the erection of school houses, the payment of teachers' 
salaries, and to the defraying of such other expenses, as ma} 
be incident to the education of children. Provided that no 
child shall be denied the benefits of the institution, merely on 
the ground of inability to pay for the same , but shall, at all 
times, be freely received and educated. 



*3G PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

The schools are open to the visitation of the citizens gene- 
rally, and it is the earnest wish of the Board, that they would 
avail themselves of the privilege. When it is recollected, that 
this institution has already educated more than twenty thousand 
children, it can hardly be necessary, to urge the importance of its 
operations, or to press upon the minds of an enlightened commu- 
nity, the invitation to witness their results. They add, that such 
visits in connection with those of the trustees, and of the public 
authorities, have the happiest influence in exciting the emulation 
both of the instructors and the pupils. They express the plea- 
sure, which they have in stating, that the school commenced 
last year in Christie near Pump-street, is ready for the recep- 
tion of scholars, and that lots have been purchased for the 
erection of another, (the Eighth') in Grand-street, west of Broad- 
way, which when completed will, together with those already 
erected, afford accommodations for the instruction of six thou- 
sand pupils. 

The number of children in the city between the ages of 5 and 
15, is supposed to be about 30 000, of whom about 13000, 
are educated in the pay schools, 10 000 in the free now the 
public, and other charity schools, the remaining 7000, from 
various causes, and partly from the feeling alluded to, are 
wholly uneducated. 

The annual election is held on the second Monday of May, in 
every year. The number of trustees has been increased, from 
36 to 50, and they may add to their number, at any legal meet- 
ing of the board ; but so that the whole exclusive of the 
Mayor and Recorder, who are members ex-officio, do not ex- 
ceed 100. The payment of the sum of ten dollars, constitutes 
a person a member for life. 

The school houses, belonging to this institution are spacious 
brick buildings, and are as follows. 

No 1. Tryon Row, corner of Chatham-street. 

No 2. Henry-street, near Rutger. 

No 3. Hudson-street, near Christopher. 

No 4. Rivington-street, near the corner of Pitt-street. 

No 5. Mott, between Spring and Prince Streets. 

No 6. Bellevue. 

No 7« Christie, between Pump and Hester. 

No 8. Grand-street, west of Broadway, not yet finished. 

9th. A building for a Public School is now erecting 

at Bloomingdaie, and it is intended that, during the present 

season, there shall be similar Institutions at Manhatten-ville, 

Harsin-ville, York-ville and Harlsem. 

Of the superior excellence of the new plan, there seems to be 



PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 237 

but one opinion amongst our citizens. Crowds, delighted 
with the idea of getting a good education for their children, with 
out being considered in the light of paupers, are pressing for- 
ward to the schools with their beloved offspring, and it is high- 
ly probable, that in the short space of one year, the number of 
these establishments will be twice as many a9 at present. The 
error of confining our proportion of the Common School fund, 
to the proper objects of a gratuitous education was produc- 
tive of very serious evils ; as it excluded from its benefits, those 
who were taxed for its increase, and made its recipients " a 
separate community," publicly declaring the story of their 
own, and their parents indigence, — a most glaring absurdity 
under a republican government. But these were entirely obvia- 
ted, merely by converting the Free into Public schools, which 
are open to all without distinction of sect or circumstauces. 
The children of those who pay, and of those who do not, are 
placed on the same footing, and education is, as it ought to be, 
provided for all, without subjecting the indigent to the least de- 
gradation. Here the meanest citizen may educate his child, 
with a well founded hope, that if he should become equal to the 
task, he may rationally aspire to the command of our fleets 
and armies ; a share in the legislature of his native state, or 
even to the filling of the Presidential chair. He stands on 
equal ground, in regard to the first honours of the nation, with 
the richest of his fellow citizens. 

Besides the Free (now the Public) schools which have been 
already mentioned there are, likewise, in this city, other charity 
schools, belonging to the following societies or corporations : 
the Protestant Episcopal Church, the New- York Society for the 
manumission of slaves, the Scotch Presbyterian Church, the 
General Society of mechanics and tradesmen. Female associa- 
tion, Hamilton Free School, Methodist Episcopal Church, 
Orphan Asylum, Reformed Protestant Dutch Church, First 
Baptist Church, St. Peter's Church, St. Patrick's Cathe- 
dral, St. Michael's Parish, German Lutheran Church, Grace 
Church, First Congregational Church, Bethel Baptist Church, 
Garden-street Church. 

Having stated in a former part of this article, that these schools, 
received a part of theirsupport from the Common School fund, 
a brief explanation of what that fund is becomes necessary. 

The first distribution of school money for the purpose of 
assisting in the important business of common school education ; 
was made by this state in 18 J 6. The number of children re- 
ported as having been taught in that year, was 140,106 ; but 
in the year 1825, the number amounted to 425,350, — being 



238 PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

more than treble of that of 1816. This fund consists of the 

following items. 

Balance due on loan of 1792 - - $410,547,06 

Do. - on loan of 1808 - - $439,372,50 

3,600 shares in the stock of the Merchants 

bank, - - $180,000,00 

Bonds and mortgages for escheated lands, > 

in the military tract. ... $$11,781,88 

Do. for school fund lands sold. - $100,064,46 

Canal fund stock bearing interest, 

at 5 per cent — 13,000 
Do. 6 per cent— 1 5 5 ,000 



$168,000,00 

Money in the treasury being balance of ') 

receipts from the capital. \ $9,520,56 

$1,319,886,46 

The amount of the capital of the common school fund is 
therefore, 1 61,31 9, 886 46 cents, and the revenue actually re- 
ceived from this fund in $1825, was 81,815, 41 cents. But in 
addition to this fund, the constitution provides, that " the pro- 
ceeds of all lands belonging to this state, which shall hereafter 
be sold or disposed of," shall belong to the fund, for the sup- 
port of common schools." In a report of the surveyor gene- 
ral, these lands are computed at 858,090 acres, and valued at 
$406,418, but "as the additions to the school fund, from the 
sale of lands must necessarily be gradual, and in no degree com- 
mensurate with the rapid increase of children to be instructed," 
the amount to be distributed this year (1826,) will agreeably to 
the recommendation of the acting superintendent of the com- 
mon schools, be increased to $100,000. The school fund is 
distributed amongst the 56 counties of the state, according to 
the population of each respectively ; but no money was to be 
allowed to any county, unless a sum equal to that apportioned 
to it, should be raised by such county. In this there was no 
difficulty, as they all cheerfully concurred in the measure pro- 
posed. 

The following is a statement of the common school money- 
received, and distributed in and for the city and county of 
New-York in 1825. 



HIGH-SCHOOL. 239 

Balance remaining in the Mechanic's bank for the year 
1824, - - - $285,25 

Received from the state treasury. - $7,208,89 

Do. from the corporation of the city of } 

New-York, - 5 7,208,89 



$14,703,03 

But a new apportionment of the school money graduated by the 
census recently taken, will soon be made in conformity to law — ■ 
The power of distributing the common school fund appor- 
tioned to the city, is vested in the Common Council, who have 
lately determined, that the distribution shall be in future, exclu- 
sively confined to the following societies, viz. The Public School 
Society of New-York, the Mechanics' Society, the Orphan 
Asylum Society, and the Trustees of the African schools. 

High School. 

In the year 1824, a number of our most respectable citizens, 
formed an association for the purpose of providing a perma- 
nent institution, which should combine classical instruction, 
with the useful branches of general education, and in which 
the course of instruction should be uniform, and afforded at a 
moderate expense. They accordingly erected a spacious three 
story brick building 50 by 75, =3750 feet square, in Crosby- 
street, between Grand and Broome Streets. 

On the 1st. of March, 1825, it was opened with more than 
200 pupils, and in the month of May following, their number 
had increased to at least 650. An act was passed for its in- 
corporation by the name of " The High School in the City of' 
New-York" By its charter, which is to continue in force till 
the 1st. Monday in May, in the year 1846, they may purchase 
and hold real and personal estate, not exceeding in value the 
sum of $30,000, for the purpose of enabling them to carry in- 
to effect, the objects of their association ; and this stock is to 
be divided into shares not less than $25 each, to be deemed 
personal property, and transferable, agreeably to the bye laws 
of the corporation. All the affairs of the association are to be 
managed by twenty-five trustees, whose election and the annu- 
al meeting of the society, shall be held at the school house, on 
the second Monday of November in every year. 

]n case of a vacancy in the board of Trustees, the same is 
t o be filled up by an election at a regular meeting of the Board of 
Trustees ; but no ballot shall be made, until at least one meet- 



240 HIGH-SCHOOL. 

ing subsequent to that, at which the nomination of the candi- 
date shall have been made. After the annual election, the 
Trustees shall appoint from their own number, a president, 
vice-president, treasurer, and secretary. The regular meet- 
ings of the trustees, are held at their school house on the 2d. 
Thursday in every month. Seven trustees are a quorum to 
transact all business, except the sale or transfer of any of the 
society's real and personal estate, for which the approbation 
of, at least, a majority of the trustees is necessary. 
The Principals of this institution are JohnGriscom, l. l. D.and 
D. H. Barnes, a. m. gentlemen, whose reputation for talents and 
industry in the line of their profession, has been long known 
and duly appreciated amongst the intelligent part of the com- 
munity. 

The following are some of the rules and regulations, which 
have been adopted for the government of this seminary. 

In the admission of scholars, the children of stock-holders* 
are to have the preference, provided more than a sufficient num- 
ber offer to fill up the different departments and rooms. The 
present number of pupils is 680, that being the complement: 
and such is the celebrity of the school, that there are 70 or 80 
children of stock-holders ready for admission, no one of whom 
can enter till a vacancy shall occur. 

The course of studies are as follows. — 

1st. Introductory department. The alphabet, spelling, 
reading, writing on slates, first notions of drawing, arithmetic, 
geography and natural history. 

2d. Junior department. Spelling, reading, writing on paper, 
first principles of geograpy and English grammar, arithmetic, 
mental and mechanical, as far as through the rules of propor- 
tion, elocution, continuance of natural history. 

3d. Senior department. Grammar and geograph}' complete 
mapping, higlter arithmetic, book-keeping, and algebra, geom- 
etry, trigonometry, astronomical calculations, surveying, men- 
suration, navigation, conicsections, dialling, Latin, Greek, 
French and Spanish languages, ancient geography, antiquities, 
history, rhetoric, elocution, composition, lectures on natural 

s The following are the privileges of the stock-holders. They, by 
their representatives, the 25 trustees, erect their school house on such 
spot as is deemed most suitable, appoint the principal teachers, and a 
committee to visit the school at least once in every week, and prescribe 
*uch rules for tiie government of the institution, as may appear most 
likely to promote good order amongst the pupils, as well as, their pro- 
gress in useful learning. Their children are admitted in preference to 
those of other persons, and their pecuniary compensation consists in 
receiving the rent for the edifice and its furjiilture. 



HIGH SCHOOL. 241 

philosophy, chemistry and natural history, with experiments 
and specimens, athletic exercises. 

The payment of tuition must, be made to the principals in 
advance, and the terms of instruction can, in no case, be varied 
from the following rates. — 

Introductory , $3, fuel for the season, 25 cents. 

Junior $5, fuel 50 cents, pens and ink 50 cents. 

Senior $7? do. 50 cents - do. 50 cents. 

Corporal punishment is never to be resorted to, except in 
extreme cases. An annual public examination is to be held in 
August of each year, under the direction and management of 
the trustees. Rewards and premiums for good conduct and im- 
provement in learning, may be dispensed as often as the princi- 
pals may deem it useful. Lectures on chemistry, natural his- 
tory and natural philosophy, are delivered at ihe High School, 
which the students in the senior class may attend free of ex- 
pense. The principals employ at their own charge, such 
assistant teachers in the several departments as are necessary, 
for the prosperity and reputation of the school. The number en- 
gaged at present, is two in the Introductory, two in the Junior, 
and three in the Senior department, besides a teacher of the 
French, and one of the Spanish language. Of pupils, who 
study the former, there is about 70, and a few of the latter. No 
additional charge is made for the study of these languages. 

The exercises of each department, commences with reading 
a chapter of the bible: but no catechism or instruction in the 
tenets of any religious denomination, shall be introduced in 
the school. 

Such is the system of education adopted, and such some ol 
the rules and regulations, which have been established for the 
government of this seminary. With respect to the manner, in 
which it has been conducted, the board of trustees, in their 
annual report published, November last, express the highest 
approbation. In speaking of the Introductory department, they 
remark as follows " All the students are engaged in similar 
studies. Their progress has been very gratifying and, in some 
instances, quite remarkable. This department exhibits an air 
of order, attention, activity and contentment, which has satisfied 
and delighted every individual who has visited it" — "The 
greater part of these children commit and recite arithmetical 
tables every day, and upwards of 130 cipher. All of them are 
taught some portions of geography, and natural history, in which 
they receive much valuable knowledge, from familiar lectures^ 
with the aid of pictures and maps — In short, the experiments 
which has been made in the introduc-tow department, has been 

X 



242 HIGH SCHOOL. 

more successful thau could have been anticipated." With re- 
spect to the other departments, they make the following observa- 
tions, '' The trustees might particularize some bright examples 
of extraordinary acquirement; but they forbear to do so, and 
content themselves with saying, that the general progress of 
both the Senior and Junior departments, afford the most con- 
clusive evidences, that the monitorial system of instruction, is 
capable of being adapted to the higher as well as the lower 
branches of education. It is the opinion of those, who have 
had the most experience and the best means of judging, that 
they have never known so great proficiency made in the same 
period of time, as has been made in the upper departments of 
the High School. In all these studies, the method of mutual in- 
struction has been brought into operation, and lias satisfied the 
sanguine expectations, which were formed of its efficiency. 
The number of classical students is 70. 

Before I conclude this article, it may not be improper to 
observe, that when the High School was organized, many were 
of opinion that it would destroy the grammar schools, (I mean 
those in the city, in which the Greek and Latin Languages are 
taught ;) but the result has abundantly shown, that such appre- 
hensions were without foundation. According to the best 
calculation which I have been able to make, the number of 
students in our grammar schools in this city and county, is not 
less than five hundred, and many are sent from this city to 
country academies, for instruction in classical learning. In the 
High School, as has been just mentioned, the number of classi- 
cal scholars is only 70, being not quite one seventh part of the 
whole of those, who are studying the Greek and Latin languages;, 
exclusive of those, who have been sent to the country for theic 
education. It is, therefore, absurd to consider the High School 
as a monopoly; Messieurs Borland and Forrest, have at their 
academy No. 45 Warren-street, a greater number of classical 
students, than the High School, as they have no fewer than 89 
under their care; and the Rev. Dr. Edmund D. Barry, at bis 
academy, corner of Church and Chamber Streets, has 50. 

In the private grammar schools, in which the old mode of 
tuition, viz. the communication of instruction to the students, by 
the preceptor in person, or by his assistant, has been pursued, 
it is well known, that it has answered a most valuable purpose 
to the pupils. In the High School the Lancasterian or Monitori- 
al system, has been introduced, and the advocates of this system, 
of whom there are many of our best informed citizens, antici- 
pate the most favourable result from its being carried into 



FEMALE HIGH SCHOOL. 243 

execution, and from the order, regularity and harmony, with 
which every thing is conducted in this seminary, as I have re^ 
peatedly witnessed with pleasure, there is no reason to appre- 
hend that they will be disappointed in their expectations. In- 
deed I believe that either of the systems, when conducted by dili- 
gent and experienced teachers, may be productive of the same 
beneficial consequences, and that notwithstanding the establish- 
ment of the High School, there is abundance of employment 
for every well qualified teacher in this city. 

Female High School. 

The success of the High School having been entirely satis- 
factory, the Stock holders were anxious, that a similar institu- 
tion should be provided for females. The trustees accordingly 
purchased a lot 72 feet by 100,in Crosby, near Springr street, in 
the vicinity of the edifice for boys, on which they erected a 
brick building of three stories high, 44 feet by 60, being of 
sufficient dimensions to accommodate 420 scholars 

This Seminary was opened on the 1st. February, 1826, when 
every place was occupied by the children of stockholders. 
Here, the trustees have been induced by the strongest evidence 
of very uncommon qualifications to commit to ladies, the chief 
direction and instruction of the Female High-School: and they 
confidently anticipate, that it will greatly increase the means, 
and elevate the standard of female education in our city 

In this seminary there are six teachers, viz. two in each of the 
three departments, viz. the Introductory, the Junior and the 
Senior. The terpjs and course of tuition are as follows — 

Introductory department. Three dollars per quarter . The 
alphabet, spelling, reading, writing on slates, writmg on paper, 
elementary branches of arithmetic, grammar, geography, 
principally by maps, some branches of natural history, and 
plain needle work. 

Junior department. Five dollars yer quarter. Spelling, 
reading, definitions, writiug, geography, English grammar, arith- 
metic, mental and mechanical, as far as through the rules of pro- 
portion, continuauce of natural history, linear drawing, use of 
the Globes and maps, plain sewing, marking, cutting and mak- 
ing female dresses. 

Senior department. Seven dollars per quarter. Spell- 
ing, reading, definitions, writing, English grammar, composi- 
tion, geography with the use of maps and globes, mapping, 
higher arithmetic, the three first books of Euclid, book- 
keeping, moral philosophy, history and belles-lettres. 



244 THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OP FINE ARTS. 

Fine and ornamental needle work, the French language, 
drawing and painting, lectures on astronomy, and natural 
history, per quarter extra $3. The payment of tuition must 
be made in advance. 

The American Academy of Fine Arts. 

In the year 1791, Mr. Archibald Robertson, a distinguish- 
ed artist, instituted a seminary in tSsis city, to which he gave the 
name of" The Columbian Academy of Painting,' 7 and suceed- 
ed wonderfully in his laudable undertaking. His pupils did 
great honour to themselves, as well as to their preceptor. But 
the time at last arrived, when the improvement in the arts of 
drawing and painting, so happily introduced by this gentleman, 
should be placed on a more respectable fooling, than could be 
possibly done by the exertions of an individual, however inde- 
fatigable. In the year 1801, the late Honourable Robert 
Livingston, formerly chancellor of this state, but then minister 
at the court of France, projected the idea of establishing an 
u Academy of Fine Arts'' in this city. To further the design, 
he wrote to his friends here, recommending that a subscription 
should be opened to raise a fund for the purchase of statues 
and paintings, for the instruction of artists, and the undertaking 
was readily encouraged. 

It was not, however, till 3d. December, 1802, thai the society 
was completely organized. It was composed of a number of 
the most respectable characters of the state, and its object was 
to lay a foundation for a museum of the fine arts, by procuring 
casts from the antique of the most excellent statues, with altos 
and bassos relievos, and of specimens of pictures of the most 
eminent masters of the modern schools of painting. The 
Hon. Edward Livingston was elected President, and an ac! 
was passed for its incorporation Feb. 12th. 1808. 

In the mean time, by the aid of its worthy founder, copies 
in plaster had been procured of some of the finest pieces, which 
have reached us from the hands of the ancient sculptors. The 
Fighting Gladiator,and the Grecian Warrior, the Roman Senator, 
the reclining Hermaphrodite, Lacoon and his sons, the Jupiter 
Tonans, Niobe, Socrates, and a multitude of others constitute a 
part of this collection. Some time thereafter, the late emperor 
Napoleon, made a present to the Academy of 24 large volumes 
of Italian Pictures, and several port-folios of drawings. 

In the year 1816, the Honourable, the Common Council, 
granted to the Academy a gratuitous lease for ten years of the 



THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OP FINE ARTS. 245 

apartments , which they now occupy in the New-York institute, 
and immediately after a gallery was constructed for the exhibi- 
tion of pictures, and another for the display of statuary. la 
the autumn of that year, t»ie first exhibition was opened, on 
which occasion His Excellency Dewitt Clinton, then president 
of the institution, delivered an address in the City Hall, since 
which period, annual exhibitions have been given of the works of 
living and old masters. For the information and encourage* 
ment of young- artists, students have at the same time, been 
constantly admitted to draw from antique, under the rules and 
regulations laid down by the Board of Directors. 

Ample means for the purpose, have been provided by im- 
posing from Europe, the best casts and busts from the most 
celebrated of ancient and modern masters ; in order to lay a 
solid foundation for the advancement of art in this country. In 
aid of this, for the last few years, eloquent discourses have 
been pronounced by individuals on the Fine Arts, prior to the 
opening of each exhibition, thereby eliciting a growing taste 
for Arts, in general ; but more especially for the Fine Arts, grow- 
ing out of this institution. In addition to the means of elemen- 
tary study, the academy possesses some admirable specimens 
of portrait. To obtain a full length portrait of our venerable 
countryman, the late Benjamin West, President of the Royal 
Societ}', and one of the first artists in the world, they employ- 
ed his successor, Sir Thomas Lawrence, to paint one; which as 
well as an admirable portrait, painted by Sir Henry Rseburn, 
of Edinburgh, and presented by him, on his being elected an 
honorary member, and a striking likeness of the founder painted 
as large as life, by John Vanderlyn, Esq. of this city, now 
grace the walls of the institution. 

As Honorary members, the academy may boast of the names 
of King George iv, the late Emperor Napoleon, who, as has 
been already observed, contributed very liberally to the estab- 
lishment, his brothers Lucien Bonaparte, and Joseph Bona- 
parte, who has repeatedly enriched the exhibition by loans 
from his valuable collection, besides many others of the most 
distinguished individuals in Europe. 

The officers of this society consist of a president, vice presi- 
dent, 11 directors, a secretary, assistant secretary, and keeper. 
Membership is obtained by an election of the board of directors, 
and by the payment of $ 25, which constitutes a patron, and 
entitles him to free admission to the gallery for himself, lady and 
unmanied children. Patrons, who are unmarried, have the 
privilege of introducing one friend at a time. Membership, 
may be transferred or inherited. 

X2 



246 NATIONAL ACADEMY OP THE ARTS OP DESIGN. 

In one of the apartments of this institution, a school for 
drawing and painting has been kept, since its location in the 
New-York Institution. Here, young ladies and gentlemen, are 
instructed in these elegant accomplishments, at different hours, 
under the superintendence of Mr. Alexander Robertson, a 
gentleman, whose talents and industry in the line of his pro- 
fession, have been long well known to his fellow citizens. 

The Presidents of the Academy, have been the Hon. 
Edward Livingston, the Hon. Robert R. Livingston ; his 
Excellency Dewitt Clinton, and the present venerable John 
Trumbull. 

The officers for the year 1826, are John Trumbull, President. 
Gulian C. Verplank, Vice President, John R. Murray, Benja- 
min \V. Rogers, Henry F. Rogers, Archibald Robertson, Ezra 
Weeks, William Grade, George W. Bruen, J. Van Renssalaer, 
M. D. Samuel L. Waldo, Isaac U. Coles, Frederic Depeyster. 
junr. directors, Frederic Depeyster, junr. Secretary, Alexander 
Robertson, Keeper, and assistant Secretary. 

The National Academy of the Arts of Design.* 

This is a new Institution, which was organized on 19tln 
January, 1826. It has already attracted a considerable share 
of the public attention and will, no doubt, ultimately meet with 
that patronage, which, from its merit, it so well appears to de- 
serve. 

The intention of the members of this institution may be 
known from the following address, which, at their commence- 
ment, they submitted to the consideration of their-fellow citizens. 
" The Artists of the City of New- York, have associated under 
ihe above title ; for the purpose of mutual improvement, and 
the instruction of all others, who wish to become students of 
the arts of design. They have no object in view, but the 
advancement of the Arts they profess, the benefit of the 
public generally, and of the artists throughout the United 
States. 

"The name they have adopted, is meant to express their 
wish to be associated with all artists, who are citizens of the 
United States ; under which honourable title are, of course, 
included the natives of every country." 

* This Academy, in point of time, should have been placed as the 
Jast-of "The Literary Institutions," but as its objects appear to be, in 
some respects, similar to those of The American Academy of the Fim? 
•Arts, it has been deemed proper, that it should immediately follow. 



THE LYCEUM OP NATURAL HISTORY. 247 

"Although they have a name and a flourishing school, they 
have no permanent " local habitation." The constituted au- 
thorities^ of the State, and of the City, will be ennabled 
to judge how far it is for the honour of the city, and state to 
aid the Academy in establishing their school, and an annual 
exhibition of the works of living artists, for the purpose of 
showing the state of the Arts of Design, and raising a fund ne^ 
cessary to defray the expenses." 

" The National Academy hopes, that the estsblishment of an 
Institution directed and supported by Artists, will be found 
worthy of their patronage ; they ask of their fellow citizens — 
their good icishes." 

" For the support of this institution, the artists look to the 
revenues derived from exhibitions and lectures, for the funds to 
carry forward their plan, to pay the expenses of the schools, 
and to furnish a collection of models. These, without any 
other aid, they have the fullest confidence from the experience 
of other academies, (but especially the Royal Academy of 
London,) will be amply sufficient for all exigencies. Pub- 
lic and private aid may advance the progress of it, by donations 
of casts, prints, and money, and more particularly by the grant 
of rooms for the accommodation of the schools." 

This institution is formed on the principles that every pro- 
fession in society knows best what measures are necessary for 
its own government. Its success is no more problematical, 
than the success of many societies that might be named, where 
the members are exclusively of one profession, and they observe 
that, "Artists planned, and they control the Royal Academy 
of London" and profess, that in the mode of managing the 
National Academy, they shall be guided by laws framed by the 
academicians themselves, without any other interference. 

The following are the officers of this society, Samuel F B. 
Morse, President, Henry Inman, vice President, John L. Mor- 
ton, Secretary, Charles C. Wright, Treasurer,- Dr. F. G. 

King, professor of anatomy. 

The exhibition is now held (May 1826,) at No. 337 Broad- 
way, corner of Reed-street, opposite Washington Hall, and 
will be continued daily, (Sunday's excepted,) till the 5th. Jul} 
.following. Tickets of admission only 25 cents. 

The Lyceum of Natural History. 

This institution was, in its origin, a private association of 
young gentlemen, who held occasional meetings in one of the 
lecture rooms of the college of phyicians. It was incorporated 



248 THE LYCEUM OF NRTURAL HISTORY. 

by an act of the legislature, passed 20th. April, 1818, and fur- 
nished, through the liberality of tht> Common Council, with a 
suite of apartments in the New- York Institution, since which 
time, it has been steadily, though silently increasing in useful* 
ness and respectability. An extensive cabinet has been formed, 
which contains nearly three thousand mineral species and 
varieties. No collection in the country is so rich in the depart- 
ment of herpetology and ichthyology. It contains more than 
five hundred species, and must ere long be a place of reference 
to all who wish to investigate these obscure classes of animals. 
In addition to the already extensive collections of fossils from 
various parts of Europe and America, the cabinet contains near- 
ly the whole skeleton of the Mastadon, and large portions of the 
only North American specimen of the Megatherium, hitherto 
discovered. A new department, that of comparative anato- 
my, has recently been established, which already contains many 
valuable preparations, and a series of skulls, nearly two hun- 
dred in number, from the different classes of the animal king 
dom. 

Every effort has been made to procure a suitable library ; but 
from the expensive nature of the books required, with very 
limited success, It now contains ahout six hundred volumes, 
and the funds of the Military Philosophical Society, have been 
generously presented by the members of that institution for its 
further increase. The Lyceum is also under pleasing obliga- 
tions to Col. George Gibbs, and Dr. David Hosack, of this 
city, and to B. Dearborn, Esq. of Boston, for many valua- 
ble additions to the library ; and the hope is indulged, that its 
still limited extent, needs only to be known to be remedied by 
the public spirit and liberality of our fellow citizens. 

For some time past, a naturalist has been employed in travel- 
ling through the country, and exploring its various natural pro- 
ductions. One of the members is now in Florida for a similar 
purpose; and as soon as the state of its funds will admit, it is 
proposed to employ suitable persons in exploring the regions 
west of the Mississippi, In connexion with the plan of eluci- 
dating the natural productions of our country, the Lyceum has 
commenced the publication of its transactions, of which the 
second volume is now in the press, and will shortly appear. 
The first volume met with a most flattering reception from 
naturalists of Europe. 

The annual meeting is held on the fourth Monday in Feb- 
ruary, when the officers for the ensuing year are elected. The 
society consists of three classes of members, viz. Resident, 
Correspondent, and Honorary. The initiation fee of a resident 



NEW YORK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 249 

member is ten dollars, and the annual contribution fourdollars ; 
payable quarterly, on the first Monday of May, August, No- 
vember, and February, in each year. The ordinary meetings 
are on every Monday evening, to which visitors may be admit- 
ted by the introduction of one or more members. 

The cabinet is, at reasonable hours, open daily for the in- 
spection of the public, gratis. 

Its presidents have been Samuel L. Mitchill, M. D. LL, 
D. and John Torrey, M. D. 

NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

This Institution, the express object of which is to preserve 
the materials of the literary, civil, and ecclesiastical history ol 
the state of- New- York, was organized in the year 1804, and 
received its charter in 1809. It has been mosi zealously de- 
voted to its original design, and has published three volumes 
of Collections, on subjects connected with the history of the 
state. Its presidents have been Judge Benson, Gouverneur Mor- 
ris, Dewitt Clinton, and now Dr. David Hosack. Its library is 
most valuable as containing a large amount of original mate- 
rials for the future historian not yet published, besides several 
thousand printed volumes. , • 

Amongst its most efficient patrons have been John Pintard y 
esq. and Dr. John W. Francis. 

LITERARY AND PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY OP NEW-YORK. 

This Society commenced with the association of a number of 
literary and scientific gentlemen of New-York, in 1804,and was 
shortly after incorporated by the legislature. Its President is 
Dewitt Clinton, who was inducted to that office by its char- 
ter. It has published one volume of transactions in 4to. The 
principal contributors to it, are Hosack, Clinton, Mitchill, 
Macniven, Francis and Griscom. 

The second volume of its transactions, part 1st. is enriched 
with the results of Capt. Sabine's late experiments, besides pa- 
pers by Gov. Clinton. It has a small but well chosen library, 

New-York Horticultural Society. 

ci Horticulture* embraces three subjects. 1st. The cultiva- 

* This is a quotation from the inaugural discourse of David Hosack. 
M. d. f.r. s. delivered before the Society, on his taking his seat as pre- 
sident, at their anniversary meeting, 31st May, 1824. 



250 NEW-YORK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 

tion of the plants of the table, including culinary vegetables 
and fruits. 2d, Those plants which are considered as ornament- 
al, and 3d. Landscape gardening, or the art of laying out 
grounds in such manner as may render them most conducive to 
utility and beauty. In as far, therefore, as horticulture is not 
only subservient to utility ; but like the art of painting, address- 
es itself to the taste and to the imagination, it has very proper- 
ly been enumerated amongst the liberal or the fine arts ; and 
accordingly ranks amongst the most delightful and important of 
human pursuits. n The ancients considered it as one of the 
most pleasing occupations of the mind, particularly in the de- 
cline of life, while, at the same time, it is beneficial to health, 
by the agreeable exercise it affords to the body as well as to the 
mind. 

But notwithstanding the vast importance of the art of garden- 
ing, little attention has been paid to ii in modern times, until about 
50 years ago, within which period, a number of eminent indi- 
viduals have directed their attention to the subject, and especial- 
ly in France and England, where they have introduced impor- 
tant changes in every department of horticulture. Tc the 
honour of France, the first establishment of a national institu- 
tion for the promotion of knowledge in this branch of science, 
was in that country. It was not until 1804, that the first asso- 
ciation was founded in Great Britain. It was then instituted 
by the name of, " The Horticultural Society of London," and 
in 1809, by the exertions of Dr. Andrew Duncan, the learned 
professor of the institutes of medicine, in the University of 
Edinburgh, u The Caledonian Horticultural Society'' was form- 
ed in that city. 

By the friendly intercourse of the members of these institu- 
tutions, each consisting of several hundred individuals, great 
emulation has been excited, horticultural knowlege has rapidly 
increased, and the most beneficial results have been experien- 
ced throughout the kingdom. Each of these bodies has pub- 
lished many volumes of communications, which have been the 
means of spreading very extensively, the knowledge both of 
the principles and the practice of horticulture, and has been 
highly profitable by the addition it has made in the quantity, 
and the improvements it has effected in the quality of the pro- 
ducts of the soil. Some of these volumes found their way to 
this country, and it was very probably owing to this circum- 
stance, that the first idea of the " New-York Horticultural 
Society" originated. 

In September, 1818, a few of the more intelligent practical 
gardners in the vicinity of this city, convened for the purpose 



NEW-YORK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 251 

of introducing such improvements in the cultivation of oar 
vegetable productions, as they conceived were called for, and 
which they felt themselves competent to effect. This society 
was, at first, entered into without the most distant view of at- 
tracting public attention. But as their improvements pro- 
ceeded, they acquired notoriety, and the views of its founders ex- 
panded with their success. They consequently became desi- 
rous, that the knowledge of their improvements might, be pre- 
served and extended for the benefit of the community. Many 
of the most respectable gentlemen of our city, who are in the 
habit of spending the summer at their country seats, and who 
are attached to horticulture, also joined in the association, and 
they formed themselves into a regularly organized institution. 

Such were the humble and unostentatious beginnings of this 
society, which in eight years has been the means of increasing 
the variety, and of improving the quality of our vegetables, of 
greatly changing the face of our markets ; of introducing a great 
number of valuable fruits ; of augmenting the number and vari- 
ety of ornamental plants, both indigenous and exotic, and there- 
by of spreading a taste for this innocent, yet instructive and de- 
lightful source of enjoyment. 

In the year 1822, the society applied to the legislature, for 
an act of incorporation, which was granted with unanimity, as 
that Honourable Body was not only satisfied with respect to 
the utility of the institution ; but were desirous to patronize 
it, as being the first of the kind, which had been organized in 
the United States. Agreeably to the charter dated 22d. March 
1822, they are permitted to hold real and peisonal estate not 
exceeding $25,000, in the whole, nor the income of more than 
,§5,000 per annum. 

The monthly meetings of this society, are held on the last 
Tuesday of every Month, and the anniversary meeting on the 
last Tuesday in August, when the officers for the ensuing year, 
consisting of a President, 3 Vice Presidents, a Treasurer, Cor- 
responding Secretary, Recording Secretary, and a CounciK 
composed of at least 12 members, are elected by ballot. The 
President, and all the officers of the society, the Mayor and 
Recorder of the city, and the President of the New-York Hospi- 
tal, are members of the council ex-officio. Each resident ov 
ordinary member, pays on his admission the sum of $5, and $% 
per annum, but any member may compound for all future con- 
tributions by the payment of $20. 

Besides ordinary members, there are two other ctasses in 
this society, viz. the honorary and the corresponding members. 
These are exempt from the payment of fees and contributions; 



252 THE NEW-YORK ATHAN-EUM. 

have the privilege of attending all meetings; but have no right 
to vote, nor are they eligible to office. From these two classes, 
however, great good has accrued to the institution already, 
and much more may be reasonably expected. They are per- 
sons of eminence, most of whom are distinguished foreigners or ci- 
tizens of the United States, resident in foreign countries, or com- 
manders of our public ships of war, who visit most parts of the 
world, and being noted for their desire to promote the science of 
horticulture, they, with the utmost alacrity, transmit whatever 
they deem interesting to the society in this city. 

With a view of exciting a spirit of emulation among the resi- 
dent members, the council may annually direct rewards to be 
given to such as may, in their opinion, have essentially advan- 
ced tne objects of the society. Many such premiums have, 
with great propriety been adjudged by the council, within these 
few years, to such members as have most distinguished them- 
selves by their success in this laudable pursuit, and their dis- 
tribution has evidently been productive of the most beneficial 
consequences. The society is rapidly increasing in members 
and respectability. 

The New- York Athanjotm. 

Till June 1824, New-York was probably the only city un- 
equal size and prosperity in the civilized world, in which an 
association for the purpose of encouraging and promoting the 
popular sciences, and liberal arts was not to be found. 

In some of our sister cities, such institutions are ably sup- 
ported ; and the commercial and manufacturing marts of Europe 
have, of late years, vied with each other in the magnificence 
of such establishments. The example of Liverpool, was fre- 
quently held out to our citizens, as worthy of imitation, and 
none could have been adduced more apposite. The two cities 
rose into importance almost pari passu, were mutually condu- 
cive to each others progress, and were most intimately connect- 
ed in the bonds of a constant and ever active intercourse. It 
-might, therefore, have been fairly expected, that an equal in- 
crease of riches and refinement would have been attended 
with an equal progress in those branches of knowledge which 
tend to elevate and adorn the mind, and to open to it a field of 
enjoyment and delight beyond all that can arise from the mere 
acquisition of wealth. 

More too might have reasonably been demanded from the 
inhabitants of New-York. Superior, beyond a doubt, in the 



THE ATHAKJEUM. 253 

general diffusion of education, unfettered by any of the tram- 
mels of antiquated customs, and ranking first in the confedera- 
cy, of which their state is a member, they were certainly called 
by their situation and circumstances, to act a prominent and 
leading part. That they have heretofore been negligent in 
this respect is to be deeply regretted ; but it is not too late to 
repair the fault and remove the stigma, which, in this instance, 
has so long attached to the public spirit of our city. 

It is from a character, for a high degree of progress in litera- 
ture, iu science, and the fine arts; that all lasting national repu- 
tation is to be derived. The wealth derived from commerce 
may vanish ; the pride of monled opulence may be checked ; 
but the works of genius, the productions of learning and the 
monuments of taste are indestructible and unfading Deeply 
impressed with these truths, a number of gentlemen of literary 
and scientific nursuits, formed an association on the 1st. of 
June 1824, for the purpose of raising an institution upon a 
scale worthy of our metropolis. 

The following are the objects of this association, 1st, Many 
o r the sciences are at present, in a state of progressive improve- 
ment, unexampled in the annals of history ; the press teams with 
literary productions, of the most important nature. To num- 
bers ot our citizens, versed in scientific subjects, or possessing a 
taste for their cultivation, the time and opportunity of keeping 
up with their rapid advance is denied; while the productions 
of the press are beyond the reach of even those, who possess 
boih the means and the inclination to obtain its most valuable 
works. It was. therefore, determined, that the associates 
of the institution should appoint from tlieir own body, gentle- 
men, who should annually deliver public discourses, on the pro- 
gress of those branches of science and literature, which are 
most intimately connected with their individual pursuits ; and 
should the several parts be well executed, they will much 
abridge the labour of following the ceaseless progress of human 
intellect; and render that task easy to those, whom more active 
and profitable avocations, draw from the pursuits of learning. 

2d. Many parts of literature, sciences and the arts, may be 
cultivated for the sake of the agreeable relaxation they afford 
from the cares of domestic life, and the turmoil of business. 
The associates, therefore, propose to provide popular lectures 
upon such subjects, open to the patrons, and subscribers to the 
institution, and to strangers. These lectures are, likewise, 
open to both sexes, and it forms no unimportant feature of the 
plan, that the ladies of New-York, will thus be enabled to 

Y 



254 THE ATHANjEUM. 

pursue studies and investigate subjects, from which, by the pre 3 
sent system of education, they are excluded. 

3d. There exists no institution in the city, provided with suf- 
ficient funds to procure and furnish to its supporters the whole 
of the works, whether periodical or standard, that hourly issue 
from the presses of America and Europe. 

4th. In the pursuit of the objects of the several lectures and 
for the use of the persons, who may attend the courses, a library 
of scientific reference will be of the first necessity. It should 
comprise, when comple;e, all the standard elementary works 
of literature and science of every age and nation. Extensive 
as this part of their plan may be, the associates, well knowing 
the laudable zeal of their fellow citizens, to promote objects of 
importance to their honour and prosperity, do not despair of ac- 
complishing it. 

The associates conclude their address thus, " In present- 
ing this plan to the public, they deem it their duty distinct- 
ly to state, that it is based upon no views of private or 
individual emolument. Their object is to obtain the means, 
by which an institution, commensurate with the magnitude and 
wealth of our city, may be established. To attain this desira- 
ble end, the lecturers are willing to devote themselves, and to 
seek no other reward for their exertions, than the reputation 
they may have an opportunity of acquiring, and the pleasure 
they may derive from being instrumental in establishing a useful 
institution." 

The following is an abstract of the by-laws, of this es^- 
tablishment. — 

The association is denominated " The New-York Athanae- 
um." It consists of resident and honorary members. The 
resident members must be citizens of New-York, and may be- 
either associates, patrons, governors or subscribers. The fund:? 
are derived from the contributions of these 4 classes. The 
payment of $200 constitutes a patron, of $100, a governor. 
Each associate pays an initiation fee of $3, per annum. There 
-are two classes of subscribers, the one paying annually the 
sum of $20, and the other $10. A subscriber, who pays $20, 
?s entitled to tickets of admission to the lectures, library and 
reading room for himself and family; he who pays $10, is 
only entitled to a ticket for himself. The number of patrons, 
governors and associates is confined to $100, of each. The 
officers are a president, 4 vice presidents, a corresponding sec- 
retary, a recording secretary, a treasurer and a curator. 

The annual meeting is held on the 2d. Wednesday in May. 
The standing cornmitje? have six regular meetings In eve^/ 



CITY HOSPITAL. 255 

year, viz, on the first Tuesday in February, April, June, Au- 
gust, October and December ; and have power to call special 
meetings of the members generally, of the associates and of 
the patrons, and to fill vacancies of their own number. They 
provide apartments for the librar}', reading rooms and lecture 
room, and may apportion any part of the annual receipts to the 
purchase of books and apparatus. The associates meet on 
the second Thursday in January, April, July and October, and 
have power to appoint lecturers and the subjects to be lectured 
on, aud to recommend books and apparatus to be procured. 

The patrons and governors, are each entitled to three 
transferable tickets of admittance to the lectures, library, and 
rending rooms, and other tickets for the members of their fa- 
milies. The patrons constitute a board, and meet from time 
to time, to consult in regard to the permanent fund, no part of 
which can be appropriated without their consent. The libra- 
rian is nominated by the curator, and appointed by the stand- 
ing committee, to ho'd his office during their pleasure. 

The general superintendance of the property is intrusted to 
the Curator, and it is, likewise, his duty to examine the rooms 
weekly, and enforce the regulations and report at the annu- 
al meeting. The lectures commence every year, on the first 
Monday in November, and may continue until the first day of 
May. 

Scheme of Lectures for the year 1826. 

Subjects. Lectures. 

Roman Literature. Professor Anthon. 

Phrenology. Dr. King. 

Taste and Beauty. Professor M'Vickar. 
The Revival of Classical Literature. Mr. Richard Ray. 

Chemistry. Prof. Ren wick. 

Commerce. Mr. John Hone jun. 

Painting Mr. Morse. 

Political Economy. Mr. W. Beach Lawrence. 

Poetry. M W. C. Bryant. 

Oriental Literature. Rev. Mr. J. F. Schroeder. 

A nniversary Discourse. Rev. Dr. J. M. Mathews. 



256 THE CITY HOSPITAL. 

CHAPTER VII. 
MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS. 

The City Hospital. 

In the year 1770, a petition was presented by Peter Mid- 
dleton, J >hn Jones and 3amu*l Bard, three eminent phy- 
sicians to Lieut. Governor Colden, tor a charter for a hospital, 
which was granted 13th June 1771, by Lord Dunmore, then 
Governor of the Province. 

The origin of this institution, may be justly attributed to the 
late Dr. Samuel Baud, which at the first medical graduation, 
in this city, 3d. November, 17^9, delivered an address, in 
which he so warmly and pathetically set forth the necessity and 
utility of a public infirmary ; that upon the same day, on which 
it was delivered, a subscription was commenced by his Excellen- 
cy Sir Henry Moore, then Governor, and the sum of ,£800, 
Sterling, ($3,552,) collected for that establishment, and the 
corporation of the city soon after added £3,000, Sterling, (13, 
320,) to the first subscription. Through the influence of Dr. 
John Fothkrgill, and Sir William Duncan, contributions 
were, likewise made by many of the inhabitants of London, 
and other parts of Great Britain. 

By their charter, the governors, to whom the manage- 
ment of the affairs of the institution was in rusted, were limi- 
ted to twenty-six, and in 1772, the legislature granted an annu- 
al allowance of of $2,000, in aid of the funds for twenty years. 

The governors, having purchased five acres of ground for 
the erection of a suitable edifice, the foundation of that valua- 
ble establishment now the pride of our city, and alike devoted 
to the purposes of humanity, and the promotion of medical 
science, was laid on 27th. July 1773 ; but on the 28th. Febru- 
ary 1775, when almost completed, it was nearly consumed by- 
fire. By this misfortune, the institution sustained a loss of 
$17,500, and the execution of the benevolent plan would have 
been suspended, had not the legislature in March 1775, grant- 
ed $10,000, towards repairing the loss, which had been sus- 
tained. But the Revolutionary war, which commenced, in the 
same year, prevented the progress of the work ; and the an- 
nuity granted by the Provincial legislature in 1772, ceased on 
the commencement of hostilities. On 1st. March 1788, our 
State Legislature directed $2,000, per annum, for four years, 
to be paid to the Hospital ; but the dreadful effects of the war, 
and the general derangement of affairs, prevented the building; 



THE CITY HOSPITAL. 257 

from being placed in a proper condition to receive patients till 
3d. January 1791, when 18 were admited, since which time, 
it has been a regular asylum for the sick and disabled 

In April 1792, the legislature granted for the better support 
of the Hospital $5,000, per annum, for five years, payable out 
of the City Excise, and since that time the institution has de- 
servedly enjoyed the patronage of the state. In 1795, the act 
of April 1792, was repealed as to future payments, and 
$10,000, granted annually for five years, payable out of the sales 
at auction in his city. An addition of $2,500, per annum 
lor four years, was granted 11th April J796, payable out of 
the same fund, making $12,500, per annum, and this grant 
was continued from time to time, till on the representation of 
the governors, stating the necessity of providing for the recep- 
tion of lunatics, an act was passed 14th. March 1806, directing, 
the sum of $12,500, to be paid annually out of the sales at 
auction, in quarterly payments, till the year 1857. 

The governors m August 1796, appropriated the sum of 
$500, towards the purchase of a Medical Library, to which, 
several members of the faculty, contributed books from their 
private libraries. An Hospital library was thus established, 
which was further augmented by the library of the late Dr. 
Romayne in 1800; and by the accession in 1805, of the libra- 
ry of a private association of physicians, who gave their books 
on condition, that they and such of their sons as should become 
practitioners of medicine in this city, should have the free use of 
the hospital library. In the same year, the governors appro- 
priated the annual sura of $250, for the increase of the library,, 
and large additions have from time to time, been made to it, 
including the whole of Dr. Hosack's botanical library. The 
Hospital library now contains about 6,000 volumes, amongst 
which are some of the rarest and most valuable works in medi- 
cal science. 

The ground, on which the hospital stands is an area of about 
455 feet in length, by 440 in breadth, bounded in front by 
Broadway, in the rear by Church-street, on the North by An- 
thony-street, and on the South by Duane-street. Part of this 
area fronting Broadway, is, at present, owned and occupied by 
individuals, leaving an avenue of about 90 feet, leading from 
Broadway, which is planted with a double row of lofty trees. 
The site of the hospital is elevated, being considerably above 
the level of Church-street, and about 600 yards from the 
Hudson River. It is one of the most open and airy situations 
in the cify, and possesses great advantages for the enjoyment 
of fresh and salubrious breezes. 

Y 2 



258 THE CITY HOSPITAL. 

The principal building denominated " The Hospital" is of 
gray stone, and in the simple Doric style. Jt extends 136 feet 
in front, is about 52 feet in height, 50 feet deep in the centre, 
and 86 feet deep in the wings, which project on each side. It 
consist- of three stories above the basement, a third story hav- 
ing been added in 1803, when it became necessary to put on a 
new roof. This building is laid out .ith great judgment, for 
the accommodation of all concerned. It contains 16 wards, 
for the sick, each 36 feet long, by 24 broad, in which upwards 
of 300 patients can be easily accommodated. There are 23 
other rooms of different dimensions, besides the lying-in ward 
and the Theatre, for surgical operations. The fornur of these 
is in the second story on the Westerly side, and the latter, 
which is fitted up so as to accommodate 200 persons is in the 
thirl story, towards the North West. 

The edifice is decorated with a handsome cupola, which af- 
fords a most extensive and picturesque view of the city, har- 
bour, and adjoining country. There is an excellent kitchen, 
garden, and the grounds are laid out in walks planted with 
fruit and ornamental trees for the benefit of convalescent pa- 
rents . 

The twenty-six governors are annually elected by ballot, 
on the 3d. Tuesday in May. and at their next meeting, after eve- 
ry annual election, they choose by ballot, a president, vice 
president, secretary, and treasurer. Their monthly meetings 
are held, at the hospital, on the first Tuesday of every month, 
and at their monthly meeting in June, they annually appoint 
a superintendent, matron, apothecary, clerk, and librarian. 
They also appoint 4 physicians, and 4 surgeons, for the hospi- 
tal, a physician foi the lunatic asylum, a consulting physician, 
and consulting surgeon, all of whom are selected from the most 
eminent of the profession. One physician is required to visit 
every medical patient, afflicted with any acute disease, at 
least once a day and oftener if necessar}', and every medical pa- 
tient without distinction, must be visited, at least, three times 
a week. One surgeon must visit the Hospital, at least three 
times a week, and every surgical patient, at least once a week. 
The physicians and surgeons perform their ser vices gratis ; but 
the incidental advantages of such an appointment, in regard to 
their profession, afford them some remuneration. Thegovernors, 
likewise, appoint a house physician and a house surgeon, with 
2 assistants to each. 

Any gentleman, elected by the governors, becomes a mem- 
ber of the institution on paying the sum of $40. Any stu- 
dent of medicine, paying $10, is entitled to see the practice of 



THE CITY HOSPITAL. 259 

the house for one year, and to the use of the library for the 
same period for $2,50. Three students of each of the physi- 
cians and surgeons of the Hospital, are entitled to these privi- 
leges gratis. Two of the physicians and two of the surgeons 
of the hospital to be named by the governors, may give clini- 
cal lectures in the hospital. 

A visiting committee consisting of 3 governors, attend the 
hospital on every Tuesday and Friday Morning at 1 i o'clock, 
for the purpose of admitting patients; but when persons meet 
with severe accidents, they may be sent to the hospital at any 
time. 

Noah Wetmore, Esq. the present superintendent, has held 
that office with great credit to himself, and benefit to the insti- 
tution, for the last 18 years. William Hammersely, M. D. 
and David Hosack, M. D. F.R. S., consulting physicians; 
Wright Post, M. D., consulting surgeon ; Drs. John Watts, 
Junr. Thomas Cock, Samuel W. Moore, and Stephen 
Brown, attending physicians; Drs. Val 'NTiNE Mott, Al- 
exander Stevens, John C. Cbeeseman, and I. Kearney 
Rogers, attending surgeons. 

Number of patients remaining in the Neic-York Hospital* 
31st. Dec. 1824, and of those admitted and discharged, dur- 
ing the year 1825. 

Remaining Dec. 31st. 1825. ~) 142 

Admitted during the year 1825. $ 1F27 



1869 



Of whom there were discharged in the same year. 

Cured. 1296) 

Relieved. - - - . - - 122 f 
At their own request, or that of their friends. 60 1 1704 
As improper subjects. - - 29} 

Disorderly and eloped. - - 13) 

Died. - ... -184$ 

Remaining 31st. Dec. 1825. 165 



1869 

The Lunatic Asylum, on the act of 14th March, 1806, being 
passed, granting, as has been already observed, the annual sum 
of $12,500, till the year 1857, the governors immediately pro- 
ceeded to lay the foundation of the edifice, denominated the " Lu- 
natic Asylum," which was completed, so as to be open for the re- 
ception of patients. 15th July 1 808, when sixty-seven were forth- 
with admitted. It, like the hospital, is nlso of gray stone, and 



-60 THE BLOOMINGDALE ASYLUM. 

is situated on the Southerly side of the ground, at a short dis- 
tance from the principal building, and corresponding with it, 
in its exterior appearance and style of architecture. This 
building is 90 feet in length, by 40 feet deep in the centre, and 
65 feet at the wings, which project 12 1-2 feet at each side. As 
it is now no longer occupied by those, for whose benefit it was 
originally erected, it would be superfluous to mention the num- 
ber of cells wnich it contained, or the manner in which it was 
laid out. The lunatics were removed to the new asylum 
at Bloomingdale, in the month of July, 1821, and workmen are 
now engaged in preparing the said buildings for the reception 
of sick seamen, of whom there are always a great number at 
this establishment. This arrangment will please the sea-far- 
ing patients,* who will there be placed entirely by themselves, 
in a very pleasant situation, where -hey have a large yard, in 
which they can take the air, and amuse themselves in their own 
way. It will, likewise, add considerably to the comfort of 
(he other patients, who continue in the main hospital. 

The Bloomingdale Asylum. 

In consequence of a communication made to the Governors 
in April 1815, by Thomas Eddy Esq. a gentleman well known 
by his active exertions in the cause of humanity, stating the ad- 
vantages, which might result from the introduction of a course 
of moral treatment, for the lunatic patients, more extensive 
than that which had hitheito been practised in this country, and 
similar to that pursued at " The Retreat," near York, in 
England; and proposing that a number of acres of ground 
near the city, should be purchased and suitable buildings 
erected for the purpose; a committee was appointed by the 
governors to take the proposed plan into consideration, 
and to report their opinion thereon. This committee, 
having approved of the plan and recommended its adop- 
tion, the governors resolved to carry it into effect, if they 
could obtain the aid of the legislature. Application having 
been made for that purpose, an act was passed, 17th April 
181G, granting to the hospital, the additional sum of $10,000, 
until the year 1857, to enable the governors to erect further, and 
more extensive accommodations, for insane patients. After 

• By a law of the United States, every seamen in the American sc-r- 
a ice, pays 20 cents per month, (deducted from his wages,) for his sup- 
port, if sick or disabled. This som, however, is insufficient for the 
•support of all, who apply for hospital relief; but such is the liberality of 
the governors, that men of Uns (lescripttfn,U'li.o arc proper objects 
are ncrer refused. 



THE BLOOMING DALE ASYLUM. 2Gl 

exploring various pieces of ground on different parts of the 
island, they, at last, fixed upon a spot fronting on the Blooming- 
dale road, near the 7 mile stone, which was found to be re- 
markably dry and pleasant, and from its elevated situation, af- 
fording an extensive and delightful view of the river, and the 
adjacent country. The ground purchased, is sufficiently 
large, as it contains 77 1-2 acres. On this spot the cor- 
ner of the intended building was laid, 7th May, 1818. The 
plan of the edifice, which was ultimately agreed upon, was 
drawn at the request of the governors, by Thomas C. Taylor, 
Esq. a gentleman of their own number, to whom they were 
likewise greatly indebted, for the uncommon zeal, which he 
manifested in superintending the work, and in his unremitted 
and unwearied attention to the building, &c. 

The plan comprehends a centre building, which is 211 feet 
in length, by 00 in depth, with two wings, each placed at the 
distance of 50 feet from the principal, and connected with it, by 
a colonade. Lach wing is to be 194 feet in length, by 50 feet 
in depth The centre building is all, which is finished, at pre- 
sent, but this is amply sufficient to accommodate 200 patients. 
It is three stories high and built of Newark stone. 

This asylum is under the immediate charge of a committee 
of six, who are annually appointed by the governors, at their 
monthly meeting in June. They have the entire direction of 
all the concerns of the said establishment, subject to the rules 
and regulations of the board of governors. None but pay pa- 
tients are received here, unless otherwise determined by the 
board The pauper patients maintained by the city, are now 
kept at Bellevue Hospital. In the Bellevue Asylum, apart- 
ments are adapted for persons of every condition, the rich and 
the poor, equally subject to this worst of human miseries, who 
may be here accommodated according to their various circum- 
stances in life. Any patient may, at the expense of his friends, 
be attended by his own physician, subject, however, to such 
regulations as may be adopted by the asylum committee. 
Since the commencement of this institution, John Neilson 
M. D. has been physician, and has charge of all the patients, 
not attended by their own physicians. In the discharge of the 
arduous duties of his office, he has been indefatigable, nor 
has any exertion been wanted on his part, to promote the be- 
nevolent views of the governors. 

No visitor is admitted into the asylum, nor on the premises, 
without permission from a governor ; nor at any other time, 
than at such hours as are appointed, for that purpose, by the 
asylum committee. 



262 THE BLOOJVIINGDALE ASYLUM. 

The delightful situation of this establishment and the exten- 
sive grounds attached to it, affords ample opportunity, to pursue 
a course of moral treatment, which agreeably to the following 
extract, from the annual report of the committee to the gove- 
nors for the year 1825, is productive of the most beneficial con- 
sequences. " The superintendent and matron," (Mr. Laban 
Gardiner, and wife,) have managed the affairs within their 
department, in the most prudent and economical manner. 
The scrupulous attention paid to cleanliness, and which per- 
vades every part of the establishment, is creditable to the in- 
stitution, and contributes greatly to the comfort of the patients. 

" The success, that has attended the moral and medical 
treatment combined, which is now pursued in the asylum, of- 
fers the strongest encouragement to the governors, to persevere 
in their efforts for the relief of the unhappy objects of their 
care, and demands an expression of gratitude to Him. whose 
mercies are over all his other works, and who has blessed the 
means, which have been employed." 

Experience has shewn, that the kind and benevolent treat- 
ment practised in the asylum, is not at all inconsistent with the 
exercise of an entire authority over the patients, which is al- 
ways indispensable ; nor does the latter, lessen the gratitude 
they frequently express, for the solicitude felt for their welfare, 
which they perceive in the conduct of all, who have charge of 
them. And in general, they readily submit to the restraints 
occasionally requisite, but whichjifthpy wprpat home, amongst 
their families and friends, they would resist as tyrannical. 

In fine weather, they are permitted to walk in the gardens 
and grounds, and to ride some mile^ round the neighbourhood, 
in a convenient carriage kept for the purpose. News-papers 
and books, are furnished to such as are in a condition to use 
them ; and others are encouraged to amuse themselves, with 
nine-pins, and other innocent recreations." 

Number of patients remaining in the Bloomingdale Asylum 
3lst. Dec. 1824, and of those, admitted and discharged dur- 
ing the year 1825. 

Males. Females. Total. 
Remaining 31st. December 1824. 58 56 114 

Admitted during the year 1825. 102 54 156 



160 110 270 



Of whom there were discharged in the same year. 
Recovered. - - 5J * 14 . Ti 



THE CITY DISPENSARY. 263 



Much improved, at request of friends, 
Improved - do. do. 
At request -'-'-- 
Died 

Total discharged and died. 
Remaining in the Asylum, Jan. 1st. 
1826. 



i 9 


10 


19 


10 


- 13 


23 


25 


- 38 


63 


1 


2 


3 


102 


- 77 


m 


58 


- 33 


91 



160 110 270 



The City Dispensary 
Is situated in the rear of the City Hall, fronting on Tryoi. 
Row. It is a small building and was formerly occupied by the 
Health Office. Jt was instituted in the year 1790, and was 
incorporated on the 8th. April 1795, under the name of "The 
Trustees of the New-York. Dispensary," for the put pose of 
relieving such sick, poor persons as are unable to procure me- 
dical aid at their own dwellings, and are so circumstanced, as 
not to be proper objects for the Alms House or Hospital. Its 
affairs are managed by a President and twelve trustees, who 
annually elect ten attending and six consulting physicians. 
The patients, whose diseases confine them to their homes, are 
visited upon application at the office, by the physician having 
charge of the particular district, in which they reside. Those 
who are out door patients are divided into Jive classes from 
the nature of their complaints, viz. Surgical diseases composing 
one class ; diseases of the head and chest a 2d ; those of the 
abdomen and complaints of females a 3d ; of the Eye and Ear 
a 4th ; of the skin and Syphiletic complaints a 5th. Each class 
is attended daily, at the Dispensary, at separate hours by two 
physicians, and may be considered as distinct infirmaries sup- 
ported by the institution. A report on the prevailing disea- 
ses, is published quarterly by the Physicians. 

The funds are derived from an annual appropriation fron.1 
the Honourable, the Common Council, and the contribution of 
five dollars, annually from the subscribers, who with the Rev. 
the clergy of this city, have the privilege of recommending 
any number of patients to the attention of the establishment. 
The expenses for drugs, and the salary of the Apothecary and 
his assistant, amounts to about $2,000, per annum. The 
number of patients in 1800, amounted to 450. Last year, 
they were nearly 8,000. 

Until within a few years, the Dispensary was heavily In 
debt; but strict economy and the voluntary surrender of compen- 
sa.fi<?n by the physicians, whose services are rendered grafui,- 



26A , THE MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

tously, the embarrassments have been greatly relieved^ and the 
Trustees contemplate the erection of accommodations, suitable 
to the increased wants of the institution, as soon as an elegible 
situation can be procured. 

The officers for the present year, are John Watts, President, 
John Agnew, Henry Barclay, John Coddington, James F. 
Depeyster, R. Graves, Edward W. Laight, John M. S. M 7 - 
Knight, Lindley Murray, Horatio G. Stevens, George J. Trim- 
ble, Lewis Wilcox, John Watts junior. Trustees. 

Drs. J. W. Weed, Washington Murray. Benjamin Ogden, 
M. Willet, J. J. Graves, C. Wright, P. Forrister, D. L. M. 
Peixotto, S. P. V. R- Ten Broeck, and J. W. Duvall attending 
physicians. 

Drs. John Watts, Gilbert Smith, J. C. Stearns, Wright Post. 
A. H. Stevens, J. C. Cheeseman, consulting physicians. 

Kine Pock Institution. — In the year 1802, an association was 
formed for the purpose of substituting the cow pock instead of 
the small pox. It i now under the direction of the Trustees of 
the City IHspensary, by the physicians of which the duties are 
performed, and all applicants are gratuitously vaccinated. It, 
therefore, ought to be ieeply impressed on the minds of every 
one, that poverty, is no barrier to getting this operation per- 
formed, as the physicians are ready, at all times, to do it for 
every one who may be brought to the dispensary, or in case of 
its being inconvenient for the parents to bring them there, they 
are cheerfully waited upon at their own houses. The number 
vaccinated, last year, was about 6,000. In the year 1824, the 
number of deaths, by small pex was 394, in the year 1825, 
only 40. If the benefit arising from vaccination was duly ap- 
preciated, in a very few years, we should have nothing to fear, 
from this loathsome and truly dangerous disease. 

The Co-poration annually appropriate the sum of $'600. 
to this object, which is paid to the physicians of the City Dis- 
pensary, and in 1824, they made a special appropriation for 
the diffusion of this invaluable blessing. 

In respect to the Dispensary and Kine Pock Institution, 
the Corporation have been liberal. It would be well, if 
our fellow citizens would follow their example. 

The Medical Society. 

On the 4th April 1805, an act was passed, to incorporate 
medical societies, for the purpose of regulating the practice or 
physic and surgery in this state. An act, under the same title, 
but with sundry amendments to the first, was passed ?0t.li. 



MEDICAL SOCIETY- 2Q5 

April 1813. By this statute, it is declared lawful for these 
physicians and surgeons, (not less than five,) who were then 
authorized by law to practice in their several professions, to 
meet together 01 the first Monday in July, or at such other 
time, as they may think proper, and to elect a president, vice- 
president, secretary and treasurer, who shall hold their offices 
for one year, and whenever the said society shall be organized 
and have deposited in the office of the clerk of their respec- 
tive counties, a copy of their proceedings had at their first meet- 
ing, they are declared to be bodies politic, by the name of 
the Medical Society of the County, where such societies shall 
be repectively formed. In this manner, the medical societies 
in each of the 56 counties of the state, have been organized,, 
and should any additional counties be erected, the physicians 
must observe the same easy process in the formation of the 
medical association, in these counties respectively. 

Each of these societies may hold estate real and personal, 
not exceeding $1,000, in value. They may, at their annual 
meeting, appoint not less than 4 nor more than 5 censors, to 
continue in office for one year, and it is one of their duties, to- 
gether with the President, to examine any student, who shall 
present himself for that purpose; and if they are satisfied, that 
such candidate has studied physic and surgery, for the term, 
and in the manner prescribed by law, and that he has given 
sufficient proof of his proficiency in the healing art, a diplo- 
ma shall be delivered to him, under the hand of the President, 
and seal of the society, which diploma, empowers him to 
practise physic or surgery, or both as may be set forth in the 
said diploma, in any part of this state. If any person shall 
practice physic or surgery without being regularly licensed, he 
is debarred from collecting any debt or debts, incurred oy such 
practice in any court of this state, and is also liable to a penal- 
ty of $25, for every such offence; but if the person so prac- 
tising shall receive no compensation for his services, he is ex- 
empt from the penalty. The Medical State Society, and each 
of the county societies, may make laws relative to their affairs 
and property, the admission and expulsion of members, and 
other matters connected with their government. Each county 
society is authorized to collect from each of its members, the 
sum of four dollars per annum, for the purpose of procuring a 
Medical Library and apparatus, and for the encouragement of 
useful discoveries in chemistry, botany, and such other im- 
provements, as the majority of the society shall think proper. 

The Medical State Society, is composed of one delegate from 
each of the countv societies, and one from each of the INJerfi- 

% 



2C6 MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

cal Colleges in tbe state, elected by ballot, at their annual 
meetings, who shall convene at the time and place* appointed 
by the said society for that purpose, and being met, not less 
than fifteen in number, may elect their officers for one year, 
and proceed in the despatch of business. They may hold es- 
tate real and personal to the amount of $5,000, grant diplo- 
mas, and elect not more than 12, nor less than six censors, any 
three of whom shall be a quorum for the examination of stu- 
dents; and if any student who shall have presented himself 
for examination before any of the county Medical associations, 
shall think himself aggrieved by the decision of such society, it 
shall be lawful for such student to present himself for examina- 
tion to the State Medical Society ; and if, in the opinion of 
that society, the student so applying, is well qualified for the 
practice of phj sic and surgery, or both as the case may be, the 
president shall, under his hand and the seal of the society, give 
to the said applicant a diploma, agreeably to such decision. 

According to the by-laws of the medical society of the 
county of New- York, their anniversary meeting is held on 
the 1st. Monday in July, in every year; and the monthly 
meetings on the second Monday of every month, except July. 
Each member on admission pays $10, initiation fee, and the 
yearly contribution, is such as the society shall at their annual 
meeting, agree upon as being sufficient for the exigencies of 
the year. Every candidate for a license, on presenting him- 
self for examination, must pay $10, to the funds of the so- 
ciety, and $5 more on receiving a diploma. 

Eleven lecturers shall be elected by ballot, at each anniver- 
sary meeting. Each lecturer shall read, according to the alpha- 
betical arrangementof his name, at each meeting of the society, 
except the anniversary, a dissertation on some subject connec- 
ted with medicine or surgery, or some important case in prac- 
tice, and shall furnish the corresponding secretary with a 
copy of his dissertation, previous to the next stated meeting 
after it is read. 

The number of members in this society is 158, and of hon- 
orary members, 14. 

The following gentlemen are officers for the present year. — 

©r. John Onderdonk, President. 
Thomas Cock, Vice President. 

Jeremiah Van Renslaer, Corresponding Secretary < 
Nicoll H. Dering, Secretary. 
John S. Conger, Treasurer. 

Their place of meeting has been,, for many years., at Albany-, the 
se,at of Government. 



BELLEVUE HOSPITAL. 267 

Drs. James M. Pendleton, J. Kearney Rodgers, John 
B. Beck, John C. Cheeseman, Eldridge G. Dunnei.i<, 
Censors. 

Dr. James R. JManley, Delegate to the Medical State 
Society. 

Bellevue Hospital. 

For tliis humane establishment, we are chiefly indebted to 
the exertions of Dr. David Hosack. In the year 1820, that 
gentleman was resident physician in our Health department. 
On the 27th. July, an extra meeting of the board of health 
was called, at his request, when he stated, that he had been 
called upon in the course of his official duties, to visit sundry 
persons, who had been reported as sick to the Health Com- 
missioners ; that he had found several poor persons sick with 
typhus fever, who were crowded in small and confined dwell- 
ings, whose situation so far from affording hope of relief from 
medicine, would become nurseries of infectious and contagious 
disease : and that under these circumstances, humanity to the 
poor as well as a regard to the health of the city , in general, 
imperiously required, that some provision should be made for 
the removal of the indigent sick from their own confined 
and unhealthy dwellings to some airy and ventilated place. 

On 3d. August following, the subject again came under dis- 
cussiou, when a committee, of whom Dr. Hosack was one, 
was appointed to take into consideration the expediency of such 
an establishment, and to ascertain the most proper site on 
which it should be erected. A spot of ground connected ivith 
the public property at Bellevue, was found to possess every ad- 
vantage, that can be desired as it regards air, water, and other 
means of accommodation. By several members- of that com- 
mittee, such an institution wa3 deemed of great utility, and 
they concurred in opinion, that the plan proposed ought to be 
carried into effect without delay ; while by others it was 
thought to involve an expense, uhich was then altogether in- 
expedient. The measure was, therefore, at that time, thrown 
aside. 

The Doctor, though thwarted in his benevolent design, was 
not discouraged. lie was aware of its great importance not 
only to the sick poor; but to the community at large and per- 
severed with vigour. On the 6th. Nov. 1820, he delivered an 
introductory lecture to the students of the Medical College, 
whichhe entitled "Observations, on the means of improving 



268 BELLEVUE HOSPITAL. 

(be medical police of the City of New-York." Oa this oc- 
casion, many respectable citizens as well as members of the 
Board of Health and Common Comncil, likewise attended, 
and this last body soon after requested a copy of the discourse 
for publication, which was accordingly furnished*. In this ad- 
dress, he urges with great earnestness, the adoption of several 
measures eminently calculated to preserve the health of the 
city against malignant diseases; but I shall only abridge a few 
of his remarks respecting the necessity of the Fever establish- 
ment at BelJevue. Among the most efficient means af arrest- 
ing the progress of contagious fevers, the establishment of se- 
parate houses exclusively dedicated to the reception of person? 
labouring under fever of a malignant, or contagious character, 
is recommended as one of the most important. To the cele- 
brated Dr. Hyagarth, formerly of Chester, England, the world 
is indebted for the first suggestion and establishment of institu- 
tionsof this nature. His views on this subject, were first com- 
municated to the Royal Society in 1 777 ; but they were not car- 
ried into effect till 1 783, when the first fever wards were estab- 
lished at Chester. The good effects of the institution surpass- 
ed the most sanguine expectations, and were speedily followed 
by the institution of similar establishments in Liverpool, Man- 
chester, London, Leeds, New-Castle, Dublin, Cork, and in- 
deed in most of the principal places in Great Britain and Ire- 
land. The advantages derived from such establishments in 
Europe, have received the unanimous approbation of all who 
Kiave made them the subject of attention; and when they shall 
have been introduced into this country and their utility tested 
by experience, we shall then know how to appropriate their 
value. 

Whenever fever of a contagious nature, is likely to spread 
through a crowded population, by the removal of the individu- 
al first affected from the confined and filthly dwellings, in 
which he may be lodged to a clean and well ventilated apart- 
ment, his chance of recovery is greatly increased by the change 
of the atmosphere alone, independently of the comforts of 
good nursing, and the benefits of the best medical aid. The 
removal of such a person is, likewise, of great importance, not 
only to the family, from which he is taken, but to the neighbour- 
hood. Indeed, it is calculated in Europe, that for ever) per- 
son thus removed, the infection of twenty others is prevented. 

* This excellent address may be seen page 11, 2d. vol. of Hosack's 
Essays, on various subjects of medical science, 2. vol. 8vo. printed bv 
J. Seymour, 1824. 



HEALTH DEPARTMENT. 269 

*£he Fever, or as it is now called the Bellevus Hospital, 
was not, however agreed upon till the year 1823. Stephen 
Allen, Esq. who, when Alderman in 1820, was opposed to the 
measure, viewed the subject in a different light, when Mayor 
in 1823, and earnestly recommended to the board the expe- 
dency of such an establishment,* and in this several of those 
who had been formerly opposed to the measure readily acqui- 
esced. Application was made to the legislature, for aid towards 
its accomplishment, and $25,000, was granted for that purpose. 
The buildiug was commenced soon after, and finished in the 
beginning of the present year (1826.) A more delightful spot for 
such an establishment could not have been fouud on the Island. 
It stands on the shore of the East River, about two and a half 
miles to the North East-ward of the City Hall, and aoout | 
of a mile to the West-ward of the Aims-House at Bellevue. 
It is built of blue stone, of which there is an abundant quarry, 
the property of the corpoiation on the premises. It is 180 
feet long b> 50 feet wide, except the cent re building, which is 
in width 58 feet. It is 4 stories high, of which the 2 lowest 
are fitted up for the reception of the insane poor, and contain 
24 rooms and 32 cells. The 3d. ston has 6 large rooms, and 
4 apartments lor the keepers, &c. and the upper story has 2 
large wards 50 by 65 each, for the reception of fever patients, 
and 4 lodging rooms. On the 1st of June, 1820, there were 
in this hospital, 107 insane poor. 

Health Department 

The regulations in operation for the security of the public 
health in our city, are founded on an act entitled iC An act to 
provide against infectious diseases," passed March 26th, 1813, 
and certain other acts supplementary thereto ; and may be divided 
into two classes, external and internal. Of these, the former 
are intended to guard against the recurrence of pestilential dis- 
eases from abroad, and the latter to guard against their origina- 
ting from any domestic causes. 

* This observation is, by no means, intended as a reflection ag°ainst 
3\Ii"- Allen, whom I esteem as a citizen of inflexible integrity and incapa- 
ble of voting on any question, in a manner different from the dictates of 
his conscience. Bat the Yellow Fever, with which we were visited in 
[1822, and during which no man could have performed his duty as chief 
("magistrate with more diligence and fidelity than he did, may have ex- 
' [hibited to his mind the necessity of such an institution as that whicn 
to bad been recommended by Dr. Hosack, and who, in such a case,, can 
b^ame him for changing his opinion. 



270 HEALTH DEPARTMENT. 

The health department consists of two distinct bodies. 1st. 
The Health Officer, the Health Commissioner, and the Resi- 
dent physician, who are annually appointed by the governor 
and Senate, and to all of whom the name of Health Commis- 
sioners is given indiscriminately. The Hospital on Staten Isl- 
and, denominated *' The Marine Hospital " in which all the 
sick are lodged, who arrive from sea under such circumstances, 
as to render it improper for them to proceed to the city, without 
some detention, is held in trust for the state by these commission- 
ers; and all vessels subjeci to quarantine,* must anchor within 
the buoys, which is declared the anchoring place for vessels at 
quarantine between the 15th. April and 1st. November, and 
the remainder of the year off the battery. Of this Hospital, 
the Health Officer is physician, and the three commissioners 
have the superintendence thereof, provide necessaries and 
make rules for its government. It is the duty of the resident 
physician and the other commissioners to visit all sick persons 
reported, and to meet daily (Sundays excepted,) at the May- 
or's office, from the 1st. day of June, to the 1st. of October, 
in every year, for the transaction of business. 

2d. The Board ol Health, who are appointed annually by 
the Common Council, may consist of as many persons, as 
they think proper. They have for a number of years, been 
composed of the Mayor, Recorder and Aldermen. To this 
Board belongs the enforcement of all the laws of the state and 
corporation, which relate to the public health an i the enacting 
of laws and ordinances, respecting the removal of nuisances, 
and the preserv tion of cleanliness. 

The following i* a brief summary of the external regulations. 
Vessels arriving, at any time of the year from Asia, Africa, the 
Mediterranean, America, South of Georgia, the West Indies, 
Bermuda or the Western Islands ; all vessels with forty or more 
passengers, or on board of which any person h is been sick or died 
while at a foreign port or on the pa-sage, must proceed to quaran- 
tine for examination. Vessels arriving between 31st. May and 
1st. October from the West Indies, America, South of St. 
Mary's, in Georgia, and North of the Equator, or from the 

* The Station assigned for the quarantine grotmd is about nine miles 
below the city, and within half a mile of the North-Eastwardly extremi- 
ty of Staten Island. The shore gradually swells into the adjoining 
hills, and on the slope thus formed is the Marine Hospital. A more 
excellent and salubrious asylum can, no where, be found in the United 
States, and though the buildings are now sufficiently capacious to ac- 
commodate three or four hundred sick, in the best manner, more exten* 
slye buildings are to be forthwith erected. 



HEALTH DEPARTMENT. Tf I 

ports in Africa, or its Islands, are to be quarantined for two days, 
at least; and when permitted by the Health officer to proceed, 
must not approach within 300 yards of the city, nor is their car- 
go to be brought into the city .ill inspected. If the whole or 
any part of it be deemed infectious, the Mayor and Health 
Commissioners ma> order it to be landed out of the city, to be 
ventilated for twenty days. Vessels arriving, between the 
above dates, from the Mediterranean, Asia, (except Canton and 
Calcutta,) America south of the equator, Madeira, Canary, 
Caps j -de-Verd, Burmuda or Bahama Islands, to remain two 
days at quarantine, and longer if the health officer shall deem 
it necessary, and when allowed to proceed ; they shall not 
approach within 300 yards of the city, except permitted by 
the Mayor and Commissioners. Vessels from ports, in the 
passage I'rom whi. h,they must pass to the South of Cape Hen- 
lopen within the period aforesaid, must be examined at quaran- 
tine, and vessels from ports to the North of Henlopen,or from the 
British Provinces in North America, having on board West In- 
dia produce, &c. shall not approach within 300 •. ards of the 
city, uniess permitted by the Mayor and Commissioners of 
health. 

Vessels from ports, where yellow or contagious fever pre- 
vailed at their sailing, or il any person has been sick on board, 
during the voyage with such fever, shall proceed to quarantine, 
and there be unloaded and purified, before their cargo can be 
permitted to come to the city. And all vessels under the 
above circumstances, between he days aforesaid, shall be de- 
tained, at least thirty days, and twenty days after the cargo is 
landed and the vessel cleaned ; nor shall such vessel be then per- 
mitted to come within 300 yards of the city ; nor shall any of the 
crew or passengers come to th< city, until twenty days after 
the last death by sickness. The Governor, or in his absence, 
the mayor may direct vessels from any place, where yellow fe- 
ver exists to anchor at quarantine, and at the -.:iscretion of the 
Board of Health, may prohibit or regulate the intercourse by 
land and by ferries between this city and all infected places. 
The Mayor, Health Commissioners or board of health, may 
order any vessel in the vicinity of the city to quarantine, il* 
they shall deem her dangerous to the public health, and may- 
cause all persons and things, which may have been introduced 
into the city to be returned on board of such vessel, and the 
said vessel may be removed, at the expense of the owner. 
Quarantine, in all cases, where not otherwise specified, shall 
continue as long as the health officer may direct. Vessels sub- 
ject to quarantine, shall be designated by colours in the nrain 



-372 HEALTH DEPARTMENT. 

shrowds, and no such vessels shall approach the city beyond 
the Quarantine ground, without a written permit from the health 
officer. 

It is the duty of the Health Officer to board every vessel 
subject to examination, and to question the persons on board, 
under oath, as to the health and condition of such vessel. 
All intercourse with vessels at quarantine is prohibited, un- 
less by his express permission. Particular regulations are in 
force with respect to the arrival of cotton, rags, hides, and 
skins, for violation of which the penalties are severe. 

O^P* The penalties for a breach of the above provisions 
are by fine , from .$250, to $2,000 dollar s, and imprisonment 
not exceeding twelve months. 

Internal regulations. — Physicians having patients sick of 
yellow or pestilential fever, between 31st. May and 1st. Nov. 
shall report them in writing to the Mayor, Health Com- 
missioners or Board of Health, and every boarding-house 
keeper shall report, in the same manner, within 1 2 hours 
after any sojourner shall have been taken sick. 

No salted provisions shall be packed or repacked, South of 
Canal-street, on the North, or Walnut-street on the East river ; 
and from the 31st of May to the 1st. of October, no salted beef, 
pork, or fish, (except smoked,) shall be deposited South of said 
line, and all such articles, together with hides and cotton, which 
may be there deposited previous to the 31st. May, must be re- 
ported to the Mayor and Commissioners or board of health, in 
order to their examination. 

When any person in this city is infected with any contagious 
disease, the Board of health may prevent all communication 
with the infected house, except by physicians, nurses and at- 
tendants, and whenever the public safety may require it, they 
may cause the streets to be fenced up, and may prevent per- 
sons going to the part so fenced. Whenever the Board shall 
deem it necessary, the Mayor may issue his proclamation, pro- 
longing the provisions of the quarantine law to a later period 
of the year 

No corpse shall be interred in this city to the South of 
Canal and Grand-streets. No sink, privy or cistpool, shall 
be constructed to the South of Spring and Delancey-street, 
except with building stone or brick, and no privy is to be 
constructed within thirty feet of any public well, or within 
two feet of the line of the adjoining lot. No privy or sink* 
which may be full or in part full, shall be covered over, nor shall 
the contents be drawn off into any hole. No privy shall be 
emptied between 3 1st. May, and the first October, unless by or- 



EYE INFIRMARY. 273 

der of the Board of Health, or permission of the City Inspec- 
tor ; nor at any time, unless by persons authorized by the City 
Inspector for that purpose. ISTo tub shall be removed from any 
privy, except between the hours of eleven in the evening, and 
three in the morning, from 1st. May to 30th. of September. 

No manure shall be deposited between 1st. April, and 1st. 
December, to the Southward of Fourteenth-street. No noi- 
some substance, nor any vat, pit, or pool of standing water, 
shall be permitted to the Southward of Fiftieth-street. No 
dead animal shall be left exposed, in any street, yard or lot, or 
be cast into any dock or slip, without causing the same to be 
forthwith towed out into the stream, at least 300 yards from the 
nearest wharf. No made ground shall be turned up between 
1st. June, and 1 st. October. Undressed skins, hides, blubber, &c. 
which may cause an offensive smell, shall not be kept to the 
South and West of Grand and Canal Streets. No Auctioneer 
shall between 1st. June and 1st. Nov. sell, in any of the places 
assigned by law, salted beef or pork, dried or pickled fish, 
blubber, hides or cotton. Butchers shall immediately after kil- 
ling any animal, destroy the offals or convey the same into the 
river. They shall not expose to sale, any stale or unwholesome 
provisions, and shall cause their slaughter houses to be washed 
each day, on which any cattle shall be killed. Putrid or un- 
sound provisions shall be destroyed by starting them into the 
river, or otherwise, as in the judgment of the City Inspector 
may most effectually secure the public health. Garbage, vege- 
tables and offals shall not be cast into the streets, but kept on 
the premises until the call of the bell carts or cast into the river. 
From 1st. May, to 1st Nov. the gutters in front of every lot 
and building, must be washed out and cleaned twice in each 
week. 

The penalties for a breach of the foregoing internal regnla~ 
fions are by fine from $2, to $250 dollars. 

Eye Infirmary. 

At the comer of Grand-street Sf Broadway. 

This institution was founded by some benevolent individuals, 
in August 1820. Its object is to receive indigent patients 
from every part of the State of New-York, who are afflicted 
with diseases of the eye and afford them such relief as their 
cases admit of. Patients from other parts of the state than 
the city of New-York are received into the infirmary, boarded 
and nursed. Those who can pay their own board are charged 



2 74 EYE INFIRMARY. 

at the rate of $2 50 cts. per week. But those who have not 
the means are boarded by the institution, as far as its funds 
will allow. Besides these, there are a great number of pa- 
tients, amongst whom are included most of those who belong- 
to the city, who attend as out patients, being no further expense 
to the institution, than the cost of the medicine, with which 
they are supplied. As the attendance of the surgeons is gra- 
tuitous, the principal expense is for the rent of a proper 
building and the support of the poor patients, who are receiv- 
ed into the infirmary, and of these three fourths are from other 
parts of the state than the city. 

The legislature passed an act in April 1824, granting to- 
wards its support, the sum of $1000 per annum for two years, 
and at their last session it was extended to five years longer. 
The expenditures during the last year, were $2,030,82 

Income from legislative grant, annual subscrip- > 90 

lions, and interest of a small permanent fund. $ ' 

Leaving a deficit of 510,82 

During the last year, 729 new patients were received, which 
including 81 remaining on the first day of the year made 810 
persons. Of these 660 were cured, 28 relieved, 11 proved in- 
curable; 12 declined treatment prescribed or absented them- 
selves, in 35 cases, the result could not be ascertained and 64 
remained, under treatment. Previous to 1st January 1826, 
there had been received 3,355 patients, which added to the 
number prescribed for last year made a total of 4,084 who 
have at one time or other been under the care of the surgeons 
of the infirmary since its foundation. 

But independent of the use of this institution as a public 
charity, it has obtained great reputation as a school of oph- 
thalemic surgery, and pupils annually go from it to every part 
of the state, well informed on this branch of their profession , 
and in those counties where an endemic ophthalemic has been 
prevalent for years, these pupils have proved the advantages, 
which they have derived from receiving this part of their ed- 
ucation, at the New- York Eye Infirmary. A course of lec- 
tures on diseases of the Eye is given at the Infirmary ever}* 
winter. 

The surgeons attend on every Monday, Wednesday, and 
Friday, between the hours of 12 and I, P. M. It is governed 
by a Board of directors, consisting of a president, two vice 
presidents, a treasurer, secretary, two surgeons, two consult- 
ing surgeons, and 17 governors, who are chosen annually, on 






COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS. 2~5 

the second Wednesday in April. It is supported by Life and 
Annual subscribers. The payment of $40 constitutes a life 
subscriber. Of annual subscribers, some pay $5, others $3. 

The present officers are William Few, president, Henry I. 
Wyckoff and James Boggs, vice {'residents, John Dela- 
field, treasurer, James W. Gerard, secretary. 

Drs. Edward Delafield and I. Kearney IIodgers, sur- 
geon*, Drs. Wright Post and Samuel Borrowe, consultary 
surgeons, Job Wright superintendent, jEneas S. Condit 
apothecary. 

College of Physicians and Surgeons in the City of 

New- York. 

It will be admitted by all competent to decide that Medi- 
cal Science, in this country, has made great and rapid advan- 
ces, within the past half century, and that the number of 
eminent and zealous cultivators of the heahng art is increasing 
annually. Of the several medical schools, of which the Uni- 
ted States now bonst, those of Philadelphia and of New-York 
(until lately) were the mo^t conspicuous. I shall first take a 
view of the progress of this department of knowledge in this 
state, after \n hich a historical sketch of the College of Physicians 
and Surgeons in this city will very properly follow. 

The first essay made in the United states for the purpose of 
imparling anatomical knowledge, by means of dissection, was 
in New-York, by Doctors John Bard and Peter Middleton, two 
of the most distinguished practitioners, in the city. The first 
attempt towards the promotion of a medical school in the 
State of New-York was made in the year 1767, during the 
administration of Sir Henry Moore and Lieutenai t Governor 
Colden, and in the following year, it was organized, under 
the direction of the College of the province, then called 
King's College, and a body of able professors appointed to 
teach the several brandies of medical science. Amons these 
we find Drs. Samuel Bard, Peter Middleton, and Samuel C'ossey, 
names familiarly known to those acquainted with the medical 
annals of North America. 

In 1761), in consequence of a public address delivered by 
Dr. Samuel Baro, a very important addiiion was made to 
the means of medical education then afforded, by the establish* 
ment of the New-York Hospital. The great advantages, 
which the medical school of New-York thus possessed were, 
however, but of temporary duration: the revolutionary war 
occasioned a suspension of the salutary labours of the profess 



276 COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS. 

sors connected with the school : the teachers and students 
were scattered, and the College converted by the enemy into 
a military hospital. After the peace of 1783, the former me- 
dical professors were never as a body rein stated in their situa- 
tion in the college, they having been separated, either by ac- 
cident or death. An attempt to revive the medical school in 
the following year proving ineffectual, the design was relin- 
quished until 1792. In this year Columbia College was made 
to embrace two faculties: a faculty of arte, and another of 
physic; over the former presided William Samuel Johnson, 
LL. D. a gentleman in every respect cpjalified for the station; 
at the head of the latter continued for some time, the learned 
and distinguished Samuel Bard, M. D. as dean. Among the 
professors who were appointed to deliver lectures on the dif- 
ferent branches of medicine, were several gentlemen of ac- 
knowledged talents and great professional merit. The exer- 
tions of the Trustees of Columbia College, in their annexing a 
medical school to that institution, are deserving of the highest 
commendation; and it cannot be denied that the science of 
medicine was promoted by its establishment, particularly in 
this State. 

By an act passed by the legislature in Marcn, 1791. the 
Hon. the Regents of the University were authorized to insti- 
tute a College of Physicians and Surgeons. The power thus 
vested in them they thought proper to exercise in 1807; and, 
accordingly, a charter for the purpose of establishing a 
College of Physicians and Surgeons in the City of New- 
York was granted, bearing date the 12th. of March, 1807. 
The establishment of an institution to be exclusively devoted 
to the cultivation and diffusion of medical science, under the 
patronage of the Regents of the University, and its sanction by 
the legislature, were circumstances viewed with the greatest 
satisfaction, and afforded just cause of congratulation to the 
friends of science throughout the State. That the high expec- 
tations, which were entertained of the benefits, that could flow 
to the community from its establishment were well founded, 
the history of the college during the time it has been in opera- 
tion, presents the most conclusive evidence. In November, 
1807j the business of the medical college commenced, and 
courses of instruction were delivered on all the branches of 
medicine. The ability and success, with which the teachers 
rilled the important stations assigned them was such, that the 
legislature, at their next session, made the appropriation of twen- 
ty thousand dollars, for the benefit of the College. The whole 
number of students, who attended the institution the first 



COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS. 277 

year was fifty-three ; the second year, there were seventy-two 
students, a greater number than had ever before resorted to a 
similar institution for medical instruction in this city : the third 
year, the college was attended by seventy-three students from 
New- York and other states in the Union. 

In 1810, the rapid progress of the College in its importance 
and usefulness received a temporary check, and its brilliant 
prospects were, for a while, overcast, owing to certain mis- 
understandings having taken place between the then president, 
Dr. llomayne and the professors. The then Regents of the 
University, upon receiving authentic information of the dissen- 
tions, which had been thus created, with the same laudable 
zeal for the promotion of medical science, with which they had 
originally been induced to organize the establishment, imme- 
diately adopted measures for ascertaining the cause of the mis- 
chief, and for the removal of every obstacle which might retard 
its prosperity. This they did at their meeting held at Albany 
on the first of April, 1811. Upon the reorganization of the Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons, at this period, Dr. Romayne 
was removed, and the venerable Dr. Bard appointed Presi- 
dent ; material alterations vver^ also made in several of the 
professorships and in the internal government of the College. 
About this time, power was granted to the College to confer 
medical degrees. 

The importance of the services rendered the College by 
the late measures of the Regents and the Legislature soon be- 
came apparent. On the 15th of May, 1811, the first medical 
Commencement was held, and the degree of Doctor of Medi- 
cine conferred on eight students. This was a greater number 
of degrees in medicine than had been, at any one time, con- 
ferred in this city : the medical faculty of Columbia College, 
which had existed for about twenty years, having scarcely 
graduated more than twenty students for the M. D. during all 
that period. 

In September, 1813, one of the most important and desira^ 
ble events took place, which had ever been recorded in our 
medical annals, viz : The consolidation of the two medical 
schools into one establishment. In their address, the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons, of this city state their union with 
the Medical Faculty of Columbia College, and the Trustees 
of this last named institution annulled their Medical Faculty. 

An attempt was made just about this period to create 
another medical school in New -York, but this effort, soon 
and deservedly failed. Nevertheless, from the year 1813, to, 
1820, the College of Physicians and Surgeons went on 

A a 



378 COLLEGE OP PHYSICIANS. 

with an annual increase in the number of its pupils and in art 
augmented career of utility and reputation. In the means of 
instruction as to chemical apparatus, museums of anatomy, and 
natural history, there was a regular increase. Its library embra- 
ce a valuable collection of the most important works on Medi- 
cine and the colateral branches of science, collected chiefly by 
Professor Francis during his residence in Europe, and was still 
further increased by donations from Drs. Emmet, Hosack, 
Francis, and others. Moreover, its alumni in many instances 
rendered the Institution great credit by the publication 
of their inaugural exercises for the Doctorate, though at no 
time does it appear that such publications were obligatory on 
the students. 

The several departments of education in this Medical 
School have been filled in succession as follows : Anatomy by 
Drs. Smith, and Post Surgery, by Dr. Smith, Hosack, and 
by Dr. Mott. Practice of Physic, by Dr. Miller, and by Dr. 
Hosack. Clinical Medicine, by Dr. Hamersley, and by Dr, 
Hosack. Miimfery and the Diseases of Women and Chil- 
dren, by Dr. Hosack, Dr. Macneven, Dr. Osborne, and by 
Dr. Francis. Chemistry , by Dr. De Witt, and by Dr. Mac- 
neven. Natural Philosophy, by Dr. De Witt. Materia Med- 
ica, by Dr. Br see, Dr. De witt, Dr. Francis, Dr. Macneven, 
and by Dr. Mitchill. The Institutes of Medicine, by Dr. 
De Witt, by Dr. Francis, and by Dr. Hosack. Medical Juris- 
prudence, by Dr. Stringham, and by Dr. Francis. Natural 
^History, by Dr. De Witt, and by Dr. Mitchill. 

It is not deemed necessary here to recount the great advan- 
tages, which the city of New- York holds out for a distinguish- 
ed school of practical medicine. The College of Physicians 
and Surgeons of New-York, has within the short period of 
its existence, abundantly proved that truth. For several years 
past it has enumerated above two hundred students at its 
winter sessions. But truth constrains us to state, that 
these flattering prospects, which gave such encouragement to 
its able professors to persevere in their career of usefulness, 
Have been recently entirely cut off by circumstances which 
they deemed beyond their controul. The College had long 
felt, at times, the inconveniencies arising from a defect in its 
government, which tolerated medical men at its Board of 
Trustees. These inconveniencies proceeded to so great an 
extent in 1825, as to call for the aid of the Regents. That 



COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS 270 

Enlightened body endeavoured, but in vain, to remove the said 
Trustees This view of the subject was also taken by Col. 
Troup, a distinguished member of the Board of Regents, and 
also by Mr. Spencer of the Senate of the State, who consid- 
ered the evils arising from the government of the College in 
the hands of Trustees as requiring immediate notice, and that 
said Trustees should be removed. The evils under which the 
College groaned were by Mr. Spencer traced to have their ex- 
istence solely in this anomoly of government. But vested 
rights were set up, and a measure, which would have perpetu- 
ated this school of science as one of the ornaments of the 
state and country, was prevented from being carried into ef- 
fect, by the assumption of technecalities and precedents. 
The Professors, consequently, rather than be involved in 
the disgrace of connexion with a school which imposed on 
students restrictions wholly unknown, and that by a body 
who exercised powers exclusively belonging to another body, 
determined to resign their several offices and professorships^ 
and the public papers of April last, set forth the circumstance. 
It is moreover a fact, that so long as the Board of governors 
of this school was unencumbered by Trustees, who were medi- 
cal prescribers solely, the establishment went on by a regular 
increase in the number of students and- Candidates for the 
Honours of the doctorate ; while on the contrary, upon that 
Board being filled up by medical men, there was a gradual 
falling off of students and candidates, so that last sessi n the 
number was diminished more than one fourth of that of the 
preceding year. 

The several branches of medical and surgical science, which 
have been taught in this College for a number of years past, 
were as follows : 

Anatomy, by Dr. Wright Post. 

Theory and Practice of Physic, by Da. David Hosack, 

Chemistry, by Dr. Willia a James Macneven. 

Surgery, by Dr. Valentine Mott. 

Obstetrics and the Diseases of Women and Children, by 
Dr. John W. Francis. 

Materia Medica and Botany, by Dr Samuel Mitchill. 

On July 7th, 1826, the regents of the university at a spe- 
cial meeting held at the capital, in Albany, appointed the fol- 
lowing gentlemen as professors in room of those above, who had 
resigned their office, in April, viz. 

Joh Augustine Smith, M. D. professor of anatomy anjd 
physiology. 

Jajhes F. DA^A, M. D. professor of chemistry. 



280 RUTGERS MEDICAL COLLEGE. 

John B. Beck, M. D. professor of botany and materia 
medica. 

Alexander H. Stevens, M. D. professor of surgery. 

Edward Delapield, M. D. professor of obstetrics &c. 

Joseph M. Smith, M. D. professor of the theory and prac- 
tice of physic and Clinical medicine. 

John Watts, M. D. was appointed president and Jonas 
Platt, Esq. vice president of the college. 

But notwithstanding this reorganization of the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons, the former professors, who filled 
the chairs in this establishment, for so many years, deter- 
mined to create a new school, which they have placed 
under a better government. Hence it appears, that during 
the ensuing winter, we shall have two rival medical schools in 
this city, both of which will be engaged in teaching the same 
branches of education. But it is devoutly to be wished, that 
those unhappy collisions, which have so long existed between 
gentlemen of the same honourable profession may speedily 
subside and that they would unite in forming one splendid 
seminary on a solid foundation, which while it shall reflect 
honour on this wealthy and extensive metropolis, may be pro- 
vided wi;h the adequate means of instructing our youth, in 
the most important of all sciences, that of preserving health 
and curing diseases. 

RUTGERS MEDICAL COLLEGE OF NEW-YORK. 

This institution has been formed by late Professors of the 
College of Physicians and Surgeons, and it is intended to go 
into full operation, forthwith. The plan of instruction em- 
braces all the departments of Medical and Chirurgical science, 
and in affording to youth the means of acquiring practical in- 
formation, it is presumed it will not be inferior to any other 
establishment in this country. The following circular address 
has lately been published by them. 

This College was instituted on the 16th of October, 1826, 
and the following professors were appointed : 

David Hosack, M. D. F. R. S. Institutes and Practice 

of Physic and Clinical Medicine. 
William J. Macneven, M. D. Therapeutics and Materia 

Medica. 
Valentine Mott, M. D. Surgery. 



RUTGERS MEDICAL COLLEGE. 281- 

John W. Francis, M. D. Obstetrics and Forensic Medi* 

cine. 
John D. Godman, M. D. Anatomy and Physiology, 
John Griscom, LL. D. Chemistry. 

The College edifice, situated in Duane-street, near Broad- 
way, and in the immediate vicinity of the New-York Hospital. 
was erected by the medical faculty at their own expense, ex- 
pressly for the accommodation of students of medicine. It is 
allowed by all unprejudiced examiners, that this building com- 
bines, with th«- necessary spaciousness, a degree of neatness, 
convenience and comfort, very rarely found in similar estab- 
lishments. 

The lecture-rooms are three in number. The chemical 
room is on the lower flour, and is provided with the necessary 
furnaces and fixtures ; the seats rising in such a manner as to 
afford the fullest view of the experiments, to the class. Ad- 
joining the laboratory, is the room for the mineralogical cabi- 
net, and such philosophical apparatus as is employed in pneu- 
matics, hydrostatics, and other departments of science connect- 
ed with chemistry. 

The hall for the lectures on the practice of medicine, materia 
medica and obstetrics, is on the second floor. This hall is 
also designed for the delivery of introductory lectures, and for 
public collegiate exercises. It also contains cases for an ample 
collection of drugs and preparations, illustrative of the lec- 
tures on Materia Medica. The library room is on the same 
floor with the Hall. 

The Surgical and Anatomical amphitheatre is on the third 
floor. 

The Saloon of practical anatomy, on the fourth floor, is 
unrivalled in this country for its extent, and the entire conve- 
nience of its arrangement. This apartment is of the length 
and width of the whole building, and is during the day lighted by 
a fine sky-light and four windows. At night it is brilliantly illu- 
minated by ten large gas-burners, which entirely obviate the 
necessity of using table-lamps, always inconvenient and in- 
adequate. The cistern of water is supplied by means of a 
forcing pump in the basement ; this room is also furnished with 
every convenience necessary to cleanliness. A furnace of 
appropriate construction is employed for the daily removal of 
fragments usually allowed to accumulate in and about anatomi- 
cal apartments. The use of this furnace, and the regular at- 

Aa2 



282 RUTGERS ItTEDlCAL COLLEGE. 

tention paid to the tables, removes from the study of practical 
anatomy all the circumstances usually productive of disgust. 
An angle of the saloon is screened off for the accommodation of 
practioners of medicine, who may wish to revise their anatomi- 
cal studies, free from interruption. 

The department of practical anatomy is immediately su- 
perintended by the professor of anatomy, who teaches in his 
public lectures, according to the method first introduced by him- 
self, that of making the dissections in the presence of the 
class, at the time of lecturing. Solicitous to excite a taste for 
this important study, and to diffuse its advantages more gene- 
rally among the profession, Dr. Godman has detes rained to 
devote himself exclusively to the improvement of his class. 
Aided by qualified friends, he expects always to be able to pre* 
vent students from losing their time in ill-directed experiment, 
or from aquiring a dislike to the science for a want of a com* 
petent director. 

The anatomical cabinet is rich and valuable. The collec- 
tion of the professor of surgery is so, in an especial degree, 
on account of its being principally composed of morbid speci* 
mens, removed by himself in his operations, or procured from 
subjects with whose previous history he is acquainted. 

The whole building is provided with gas-lights, and wanned 
by a single fire, burned in the basement, from which heated 
air is conveyed by flues to all parts of the house. This ar- 
rangment is so effectual, that but a few minutes are necessary 
to the production of a summer temperature, even in the cold- 
est weather. The heated air flows from below the seats into 
the different lecture-rooms, so that they are equally warmed 
throughout. 

The first session of this institution has been honoured by 
the attendance of one hundred and fifty-three gentlemen, of 
which number one hundred and thirty were medical students \ 
twelve doctors in medicine, and eleven members of the High- 
School, attending chemical lectures only. The class of prac- 
tical anatomy contained fifty two persons, who were supplied 
with the material necessary to their studies, at an expense 
scarcely worthy of remark, being two dollars froiu each per- 
son, for every subject consumed by his class. The classes re- 
peat their operations as often as their convenience may 
suggest. 

These circumstances, together with the facility of approach- 
ing the city from all quarters ; the reasonable rate at which the 
boarding may be obtained ;* the opportunity of witnessing 

* From three to six dollars a week. 



RUTGfcRS MEDICAL COLLEGE, 2&3 

surgical operations in the private practice of Professor Mott. 
and in the JNew-York Hospital, render it certain, that medical 
students will find their interests advantageously served by the 
courses of instruction in Rutgers Medical College. 

LECTURES. 

The session of this institution commences on the first Mon- 
day of November, and continues until the first of March; in 
the following manner : 

Dr. Horace, on the Institutes and Practice. * 1 
Dr. Macneven, on Therapeutics and Ma- | £j 
teriaMedica. V &. 

Dr. Mott, on Surgery, ) ^ 

Dr. God man, on Anatomy and Physiology, 



Dr. Francis, on Obstetrics and Forensic 

Medicine, t 
Dr. Griscom, on Chemistry, 



I 



GRADUATION, 

Candidates for graduation, produce to the Dean at the tiuit 
of their application, certificates to the following effect : 

1st. That the applicant has attained the age of twenty-one 
years. 

2d. That he has studied during three years under some re- 
gular practitioner or practitioners of medicine. 

3d. That he has, during this period, attended two full 
courses in Rutgers Medical College, or one course in this, and 
one full course in another college, which is received by the fa- 
culty ad eundem. 

These rules being complied with, and a thesis written by the 
applicant, (on some medical subject, or science connected with 
medicine,) presented to the Dean, the candidate is admitted to 
an examination for the degree of Doctor of Medicine. 

* In addition to the course of Instruction on the Institutes Practice of 
Physic, and Clinical Medicine, Professor Hosack, delivers to his class at 
•a separate hour, but without additional expense, a course of Lectures on 
Botany, exhibiting by means of diagrams and living' plants, an outline 
of the Linn scan System. 

+ The Professor of Obstetrics is supplied with the necessary appara 
{us, models, casts and preparations for the illustration of his course ; 
in addition to which he has access at all times to the Cabinet of Ms 
colleagues. 



284' LYlNG-IN HOSPITAL. 

THE RUTGERS GOLD MEDAL. 

As an incentive to emulation. Col. Rutgers has instituted 
an honorary gold medal, which will be annually awarded by 
the faculty of Rutgers Medical College to the author of the 
most excellent inaugural dissertation. The dissertation may 
he written in Latin, French, or English. 

Martriculation, $3: Tickets. $15 each; Practical Anatomy, $10 ; 

Graduatidn, $20. 

MEDICO-CHIRURGUAL SOCIETY OP THE UNIVERSITY OE 
NEW-YORK. 

This Institution was arranged upon the first formation of 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons of this city in 1807. 
Its objects are to unite the interests of the junior members of 
the profession, and to promote a spirit of free inquiry on all 
matters connected with the healing art. The meetings of 
this society, are held during the winter session of the College $ 
and at which papers are, read, and discussion held on subjects^ 
more immediately embraced in a system of medicine and of Sur- 
gery. It has published various Reports. Of the annual Presi- 
dents, there have been Dr. Serrill, Dr.Mitchill, Dr. Mac-» 
neven, Dr. Francis, Dr. Hosack, &c. 

new-york lying-in hospital. 

The Metropolis of England boasts of several establishments 
of this name and character. The first we believe was found- 
ed by the late Dr. John Leake. The act of this Institution, 
as expressed in its act of incorporation, is to afford an asylum 
to women in a state of pregnancy, who are destitute of the 
means of support, and who are unable :o procure the necessa- 
ry medical assistance and nursing, during the period of their 
confinement. 

The poor constitute an important portion of almost every 
large community ; and, consequently, have a powerful claim 
upon the assistance of the wealthy. At all times, there are 
many persons of the description just mentioned, as the especial 
objects of this charity; and though individual liberality in ma- 
ny instances, had been manifested to obviate and remedy the 
evils under which they laboured, yet it was not until 1798, 
that an attempt was made to provide a suitable establishment 
for their reception and relief. The dreadful mortality, which 
accompanied the yellow fever as it prevailed in this city, in 



LYING-IN HOSPITAL. 285 

the summer of this year, and the great distress consequent 
thereon, operated with peculiar severity upon the labouring 
poor ; and many women being bereft of their husbands, were 
rendered wretched under the accumulated evils of grief and 
poverty. 

As New- York, though already eminently distinguished for 
its charitable institutions, did not afford any provision for this 
class of the poor, the present occasion was deemed proper to 
project an establishment for this purpose. Accordingly, in 
the ensuing October, a subscription was set on foot, by Dr. 
David Hosack, which was patronized by many of the most 
respectable citizens of this city, and the sum of nearly five 
thousand dollars collected. The laudable designs of the as- 
sociation were immediately carried into effect, an appropriate 
building being procured for the charity in Cedar street, where 
they continued in operation for some time. 

Thomas Pearsall, Sec'y. Robert Lenox, Dr. David 
Hosack and others were a Committee, who among other 
provisions, made the following : Every person subscribing 
the sum of twenty dollars, shall be privileged to recommend 
a patient to the Lying-in-Hospital, if approved of by the visit- 
ing Committee. 

It being afterwards ascertained that the interest arising from 
the Society's funds, was by no means sufficient to meet the ex 
penses, which a separate institution demanded; in 1801, an 
agreement was entered into between the New- York Hospital 
and the governors of the Lying-in-Hospital, by which the in- 
terest of the then existing funds of the latter, were to be paid 
to the use of the former institution, on condition that a Lying-in 
ward should be established ; and a suitable ward for that pur- 
pose was accordingly fitted up and opened for the reception of 
patients, the express objects of the Lying-in Hospital. 

Since the above period, the Lying-in Hospital has carried 
into execution its humane and benevolent plan of affording re- 
lief to destitute females at the apartments, which they have- 
provided in the New- York Hospital; and the charity which it 
lias thus dispensed, while it will be admitted that it has been 
directed to objects who of all others, have a peculiar claim to 
attention, so must it also be allowed to be most extensively dif- 
fused. In 1799, an act to incorporate the Lying-in Hospital; 
was granted by the state legislature. 

By bequests, and donations, the interests of the Society's funds 
and other appropriations which are constantly augmenting 
their resources, it is ardently hoped, and believed, that the time 
is not far distant, when the governors of the Lying-in Hospi^ 



286 BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES, &C. 



tal, will be enabled to erect a commodious and separate estab- 
lishment, for the better accompliement of their praiseworthy 
undertaking, and thus add another to the many charitable in- 
stitutions of this city, which announce so decidedly, and so 
favourably, the humanity of its inhabitants. 

Upon the reorganization of this Institution in 1813, Cor- 
nelius Ray, Esq was elected President thereof, and Drs. 
Post, Hosack, Moore and Francis, Physicians. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Benevolent, Charitable, and Friendly Institutions, and 

Societies. 

While the city of New- York is justly celebrated for its 
rapid growth, commercial enterprise, and increasing prosperi- 
ty ; it also stands unrivalled (at least, in the western world) for 
its benevolent, charitable, and friendly institutions. Amid all 
its luxuries and peasures, on the one hand, and no inconside- 
rable portion of cupidity on the other, there moves a redeem- 
ing spirit of genuine philanthropy, that is daily calling forth 
tears of joy and gratitude from eyes that had been dim- 
med with those of sorrow and despair* Incited by this 
principle, and aware of the comparative weakness of indi- 
vidual exertion, the charitable of all ranks, sects, and pro- 
fessions, have associated together in societies, for the purpose 
of more effectually fulfilling the heavenly precepts of charity. 
The most important and prominent of such institutions, shall 
be noted in this place, commencing with. 

THF HUMANE SOCIETY. 

This excellent institution, which has now existed for forty 
years, was originally formed by a few philanthropic gentle- 
men for the purpose of affording relief to distressed debtors. 
In 1806, its plan was extended so as to include the recovery or 
resuscitations of persons apparently dead from drowning; On 
the fourth of Febuary, 1814, the society obtained a charter 
of incorporation ; by which they are allowed to hold an estate 
of the value of $3,000. Their views have, since been and 
are now directed to the following branches : 

1st. The support and clothing of debtors in prison, and 
(as connected therewith) the malntainance of a soup-house 
establishment, 



BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES, &C. 28? 

2d. The liberation of such debtors as are by law entitled to 
be discharged, and of such as are confined for small sums, 
and are peculiarly deserving of assistance. 

3d. The distribution of soup to the poor in general, espe- 
cially in cases of general public calamity. 

4th. The resuscitation of persons apparently dead from 
drowning. 

A favourite object, also, of the society is, to discourage 
the practice of street begging. 

Th;S institution was supported by casual donations for a con- 
siderable period. For some time, however, it has depended 
on annual subscriptions, which enabled the committee of 
management to erect a soup-house, in which they were greatly 
assisted by a donation, from the corporation of this city, of 
$600, and the lot of ground on which the house is erected, 
near the East entrance of the Park. The affairs of this so- 
ciety are managed by a President, Vice-President, Treasurer, 
Secretary, and a Committee of twenty-one members, v*ho are 
elected annually. Their stated meetings are on the first 
Wednesday of every month, when a visiting committee of 
three, is chosen, whose usiness it is to superintend the soup- 
house, and visit the debtors in prison, at least once every 
week. 

AGED, INDIGENT FEMALE SOCIETY. 

This society consists entirely of females, who have associ- 
ated for the object of imparting relief to respectable aged in- 
digent females, for which purpose it is allowed to hold an es- 
tate to the amount of $100,000. Its affairs are intrusted to 
the management of a board of Trustees, composed of a first 
and second directress, treasurer, secretary, and twelve man- 
agers, who are chosen annually, on the last Thursday of No- 
vember. This society was instituied in the beginning of the 
year 1614, and incorporated March 10th, 1815, to continue 
fifteen years. 

FEMALE ASSOCIATION. 

This Society is composed of young females, who belong (o 
that very respectable body of Christian Friends, usually 
denominated Quakers. The object of the institution is that 
of visiting and assisting the poor sick, and obtainging instruc- 
tion for the children of such persons as are not provided for, 
and, who do not belong to any religious society. Their charter 



288 BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES, &C. 

is dated March 26th, 1813, to continue twenty years, by 
which they are permitted to hold property to the amount of 
$40,000. Females become members by subscribing five dol- 
lars a year; and the affairs of the institution are conducted by 
a board of twelve trustees, who are elected on the first Mon- 
day of June annually. By a special clause in the aci of incor- 
poration, this society is entitled to a share of the Common 
School fund. 

FEMALE ASSISTANCE SOCIETY. 

This association of benevolent females, was incorporated 
on the 11th. of April, 1817," for the relief of sick poor women 
and children," and is to continue until the second Monday of 
November, 1 830, a period of thirteen years. Its funds are 
limited to $3,000, and its affairs are managed by a first and 
second Directress, Treasurer, Secretary, and twelve Mana-, 
gers, besides as many Assistants as shall be deemed necessary, 
all of whom are elected by ballot on the second Monday of 
November, annually. 

FEMALE SOCIETY. 

As long ago as the year 1797, a few benevolent ladies of 
this city, associated for the laudable purpose of affording 
" relief to destitute widows with small children;" but it was 
not until the 2d. of April, 1802, that an act of incorporation 
was obtained from the Legislature. They seldom afford relief 
in money ; but in such necessaries as the objects stands most in 
need of. They also find employment for such as are able and 
willing to work. By their charter they may hold funds to the 
amount of $50,000 ; and their affairs are conducted by a first 
and second Directress, Secretary, Treasurer, and twelve Man- 
agers. 

widow's fund society. 

This institution was incorporated on the 10th, day of 
March, 1815 ; and may hold funds to the amount of $2,500. 
per annum. Its object is the "relief of the widows and children 
of deceased clergymen of the reformed protestant Dutch Church 
in the United States." It is governed by a President, Vice-Presi- 
dent, Treasurer, Secretary, and nine Trustees, who are elec>- 
ted annually on the first Tuesday of June. 



BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 289 

ASSISTANCE SOCIETY. 

The objects of this institution are " for relieving and ad- 
vising sick and poor persons in the city of New- York." The 
society was first organized in 1808, and obtained an act of in- 
corporation on the 1/th. of February, 1810; by which it is 
permitted to hold real and personal estate to the amount of 
$25,000. This charter expired, by its own limitation, on 
the first of December, 1825 ; and we are not informed with 
respect to its contemplated renewal and extension. 

PROVIDENT SOCIETY. 

This society was incorporated on the l6th. of February ? 
1805, for the purpose of establishing a fund to support infirm 
members, and their widows and children, on their decease. 
Their capital is limited by their charter to $10,000. By the 
same act, three other charitable institutions were incorpora- 
ted, on the same plan, and with the like limited capital. They 
are entitled, 1st. The Mutual Benefit Sonety ; 2d. The 
Benevolent Society ; 3d. The Albion Benevolent Society. 

MARINE SOCIETY. 

This is an old and respectable institution, having been incor- 
porated as long ago as the year 1770; when its funds were 
limited to ,£3,000 sterling per annum. Its immediate ob- 
jects were the improvement of maritime knowledge, and the 
relief of indigent masters of vessels, their widows and orphans. 
The affairs of this institution are managed by a Committe of 
magistrates, merchants, and mariners, who appoint officers 
annually. The funds are supported by yearly subscriptions of 
$2 from each member. 

THE SAIL0R ? S SNUG HARBOUR. 

This establishment is a splendid monument of disinterested 
benevolence ; and while it continues to afford shelter, protec- 
tion and sustenance, to those brave weather-beaten-tars, who ; 
in the hour of danger have been disabled in the defence of their 
county's rights, the name of Captain Randall will be held in 
grateful remembrance. On the first day of June, 1801, a 
trust-deed was executed by this genuine philantrophist, in 
which he devised a valuable landed property, lying near the 
head of Broadway, for the purpose of maintaining worn out 

Bb 



290 BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 

and decriped seamen. In this instrument, he nominated the 
Mayor and Recorder of the city, the president of the Chamber 
of Commerce, the President and Vice-President of the Ma- 
rine Society, and the senior clergymen of the Episcopal and 
Presbyterian churches, as trustess; and on the sixth of Febru- 
ary, l§06, they obtained an act of incorporation. The pro- 
pert}' thus left by Captain Randall, was originally estimated 
at $50,000. From its favourable situation, it has since great- 
ly increased in value, and now affords a snug and comfortable 
asylum to those brave defenders of theiv country, who, from 
age, or honourable wounds, are no longer able to fight her 
battles. By a subsequent act, the trustees were required to 
report annual); the state of their funds to the legislature 
and to the Common Council. 

pilots' charitable society. 

This institution was incorporated on the eleventh of April, 
1817, and may hold real and personal estate to the amount of 
$3,000 per annum. Its object is " the relief of distressed 
and decayed pilots, their widows and children." The affairs 
of this society are manged by a President, Vice-President, 
Treasurer, Secretary , and five Trustees, who are elected, an- 
nually, on the first Monday of February. 

DEAF AND DUMB INSTITUTION. 

The object of this most laudable establishment, as expres- 
sed in their charter, is to afford " the necessary means of in- 
struction to the deaf and dumb ; and also to provide for the 
support and maintainance of those, in that condition, whose 
parents are unable to maintain them during their course of 
tuition." It was incorporated on the 15th. of April, 1817, 
the charter to endure for twenty years. Their real and per- 
sonal estate is limited to ,§5,000 per annum The manage- 
ment of its affairs is intrusted to the hands of a President, two 
Vice Presidents, a Treasurer, Secretary, and a Board of Di- 
rectors, consisting of twenty members, who are elected an- 
nually. Two thirds, at least, of the Directors, must be resi- 
dents" of the city and county, and seven constitute a quorum. 

MANUMISSION SOCIETY. 

About the year 1785, several benevolent individuals, (most- 
ly of the Quaker persuasion) associated themselves for the 



BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 291 

purpose of c( meliorating the condition of negro slaves in the 
state of New- York, by effectually obtaining those advantages 
for them, which have been already sanctioned by its laws, 
and by conferring on them a virtuous education." With 
these laudable views, the society persevered, with a com- 
mendable zeal, until 1808, when they succeeded in obtaining 
an act of incorporation. The government of this institution 
is vested in a President, two Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, 
Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, and a standing committee 
who have a Chairman. The officers of the school, are a Board 
of Trustees, a Secretary, Chairmain, and seven Counsellors. 
There is also a Committee of Correspondence, with a Chair- 
man and Secretary ; and a Committee of Ways and Means, 
with a Secretary. 

VACCINE SOCIETY. 

The celebrated Dr. Waterhouse, one of the professors of 
Harvard University, in Cambridge, state of Massachusetts, 
justly styled the American Jenner, was the parent of Vacci- 
nation in the Western World. After years of unremitted ex- 
ertion, he at length succeeded in overcoming the honest pre- 
judices and professional cupidity which assailed his new theory 
from every quarter; and about the > ear 1801, vaccination 
began to become popular throughout the state of Massachu- 
setts. In the following year, the subject was taken up with 
some spirit by the physicians of this city, and a society was 
formed for the purpose of extending the benefits of vaccina- 
tion to those whose pecuniary circumstances rendered them un- 
able to employ a physician. During the first year this society 
existed, there were five hundred children vaccinated in New- 
York and New-Jersey ; in 1812, there were one thousand, in 
New-York and Massachusetts ( in the following year. 2,560 
in New-York alone; and in 1814, in Connecticut and New- 
York, there were 4,500. Thus, in a few years, nearly nine thou- 
sand human beings were rendered for ever secure from that 
scourge of mankind, the small pox ! 

SHAMROCK FRIENDLY ASSOCIATION. 

This institution, which is composed chiefly of the natives 
of Ireland, was formed in the year 1815, for the purpose of 
befriending emigrants on their arrival in the United States, by 
giving them useful information; and procuring them employ- 



292 BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 

ment. Their views, however, are not confined to country, 
politics, or religion ; it is enough that the applicant is a stran- 
ger, to insure their protection. The society is governed by 
a President, two Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, Assistant 
Secretary, Treasurer, and a committee of Superintendence, 
consisting of four members, officers are elected annually. 

GERMAN SOCIETY. 

This society was instituted for the purpose of giving pecuni- 
ary aid to German emigrants, and assisting such other 'natives 
of that country and their decendants as might be reduced in 
their circumstances. On the sixth of April, 1814, theyob- 
tained an act of incorporation, to continue for twenty-one years. 
The affairs of the society are managed by a Committee, and 
officers regularly chosen ; and its funds are limited to $25,000. 

ROMAN CATHOLIC BENEVOLENT SOCIETY. 

The charter of this society was obtained in April, 1817, 
by which its real and personal estate is limited to $2,500 per 
annum. It was instituted for the humane and laudable pur- 
poses of " assisting and relieving the poor, and of protecting 
and educating orphan children" The management is con- 
fided to a President, three Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, two 
Assistant Secretaries, a Treasurer, and thirteen members, 
who are elected at Whitsun-Monday, annually. Members to 
subscribe no greater sum than three dollars per annum. 
Twenty-one form a quorum for the transaction of business. 

SOCIETY OF CINCINNATI. 

After the close of the revolutionary war, a number of those 
military veterans who had fought in the armies of the republic, 
formed themselves into a society for the purposes of general 
benevolence. As they had all " relinquished the hostile sword 
for the peaceful plough," or retuned from the embattled field 
to their former employments, like the celebrated Roman Cin- 
cinnatus, they very jusdiciously distinguished their institution 
by the name of that celebrated patriot. 

TYPOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY. 

The New-York Typographical Society, was instituted on 
the 4th, of July, 1809, but did not obtain an act of incorpora- 



BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 293 

lion until the 27th, of February, 1818. The laudable objects 
of this institution are, " relief to indigent and distressed mem- 
bers of said association, their widows and orphans ; and 
others who may be found proper objects of their charity. ?; 
To effect these benevolent purposes the society is allowed, by 
their charter, to hold real and personal estate to the amount of 
$5000. Their affairs are managed by a President, Vice-Pre- 
sident, Treasurer, and Secretary, who are chosen annually, 
on the Saturday next preceding the fourth day of July. They 
have also, a Board of Directors, composed of twelve members, 
three of whom are elected monthly, for the term of four 
months. 

The terms of admitting new members are, 1st. competency 
as a workman, 2c?. a good moral character ; 3d. an initiation 
fee of five dollars. — 4th. monthly dues of twenty-five cents. 
Any member having paid dues to the amount of thirty dollars ; 
or paying the like sum in advance, becomes entitled to a cer- 
tificate, and is for ever after exempt from monthly dues. 

Application for relief, in cases of sickness, or otherwise, 
must be made to the President, who thereupon assembles the 
Board of Directors, by whom the applicant's case is taken in- 
to consideration ; and, should his circumstances require it, 
a sum, not exceeding three dollars per week, is awarded him 
from the Treasury. In case of the death of a member, the 
sum of twenty-five dollars is tendered towards defraying the 
funeral charges, at the discretion of the Board; who likewise 
award to the widows of deceased members, any sum, not 
exceeding two dollars per week, for the space of three months 
from the decease of their husbands ; and in case a member 
dies, leaving no widow, but children — if one or two, the sum 
of two dollars — if over two, the sum of three dollars per 
week, for three months, are appropriated to their benefit in 
any manner the Board may direct, provided the case, in their 
opinions, require it. But in no case whatever, have the wife 
or children of a living member, any legal claim on the funds 
of the institution. 

A general meeting of the society for the transaction of busi- 
ness is held on the first Saturday of every Month, at the So- 
ciety's room, in the Shakspeare, at the corner of Fulton and 
Nassau-streets; where the Board of Directors also converse 
on the evening of every Saturday. The affairs of this insti- 
tution are in a very flourishing condition — the funds rapidly 
increasing, and their acts of benevolence frequent and judicious. 
A select and valuable Library has lately been procured, by 
private subscriptions and donations, from which every mem> 

Bb2 



294 BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 

ber, whose monthly dues have been paid, is entitled to draw 
two volumes per week. 

MECHANIC SOCIETIES. 

The " General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen," has 
already been notieed at page 226. In addition to which, it 
may be proper to state in this place, that the journeymen of 
almost every mechanical profession, have formed institutions 
similar to the one described above ; most of which have ob- 
tained acts of incorporation, and all of them are found to be 
very beneficial in the promotion of those charitable purposes 
for which they were created. By a reference to page 142, a 
list of their names, &c. may be seen. 

FIRE DEPARTMENT FUND. 

The object of this fund, which is created by "the money arising 
from chimney-fines, certificates, and donations," is the " re- 
lief of such disabled Firemen, or their families," as may be 
deemed worthy of assistance. The principal of this fund, 
however, cannot be impaired in granting relief ; the only in- 
come arising therefrom, may be thus appropriated. All applica- 
tions for relief must be made to the Trustees, whose duty it is 
to inquire into the situation of the applicant, and grant such 
assistance as in their opinion, circumstances may require. 
Those entitled to relief are — " all Firemen while doing duty 
as such, and being indigent ; all Firemen who have been disa- 
bled while doing duty as such, and having become indigent 
and infirm ; and all Firemen having served ten years as such, 
and shall resign thereafter, having become indigent and infirm." 
The widows and orphans of all such persons are also entitled 
to assistance. In their last annual report, dated December 4, 
1826, the Trustees state that seventy-one widows were then on 
the pension-list, and receiving each twenty-five dollars per an- 
num ; that more than $2578, had been expended in charities 
during that year, of which pensioned widows had received 
above $1733, and sick and poor Firemen and their families, 
$543 5 and that above $342 had been appropriated to the 
purchase of shoes and books, for 270 children then at the va- 
rious public schools in this city. 

For further particulars respecting the Fire Department, 
see the appropriate head. 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 29T» 

MASONIC SOCIETIES. 

Whether Masonry be considered as a scientific, a moral, 01 
a charitable institution ; or, (as is the fact) all three combined, 
we feel no hesitation in saying that it sustains as high a rank 
in New- York, as in any city in the known world. In this 
place, however, it is proper to notice it merely as the agent 
of a most liberal and extensive benevolence. How many un- 
protected widows are daily rescued from want and despair, by 
its benign influence ! What numbers of orphans are preserved 
from ignorance and infamy by its bounty ! It feeds the hungry 5 
dothes the naked; entertains the stranger; visits the sick; 
relieves the prisoner ; and consoles the afflicted in every situ- 
ation. In short, the Masonic Societies of New- York, are every 
way worthy of its elevated character and splendid destiny. 

For a list of the Masonic Lodges in this city, with the times 
and places of their meeting, see Appendix. 



CHAPTER X. 

SOCIETIES FOR THE DISSEMINATION OP THE CHRISTIAN 

RELIGION. 

The citizens of New- York are not more conspicuous for 
their attention to the temporal wants of the poor and destitute, 
than for their unwearied exertions in the distribution of spirit- 
ual charities, both at home and abroad. More than thirty so- 
cieties now exist in this city, whose funds are devoted exclu- 
sively to this pious purpose; while assistant auxiliary, and sup- 
plementary institutions, are almost daily springing up around 
us. Innumerable streams of private contribution supply the 
means of operation, which are not permitted to remain inac- N 
tive by the zealous managers. Of each of these institutions it 
will be proper to take a brief notice ; and as the sacred Scrip- 
tures are acknowledged, by every sect, to be the basis and 
standard of the Christian faith, it will be most in order to place 
at the head of this article, 

BIBLE SOCIETIES. 

The American Bible Society was instituted in May, 1816, 
by a convention of delegates from Bible Societies in different 
parts of the United States. Its affairs are conducted by a 



39G RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

Board of Managers, consisting of thirty-six laymen, of whom 
twenty- four must be residents of the city of New- York or its 
vicinity. This Board holds stated meetings on the first Thurs- 
day of every Month, at 4 o'clock P. M. at the Society's House. 
No. 115 Nassau-street; or oltener if business require. The 
anniversary meeting of the Society is held annually, on the 
second Thursday of May, at 10 o'clock, A. M. at New-York 
or Philadelphia, as determined by vote at the preceding an- 
nual meeting. 

The sole object of this Institution, as expressed in its con- 
stitution, is to "encourage a wider circulation-of the Holy 
Scriptures, ivithout note or comment. The only copies in the 
English language to be circulated by the Society, shall be of the 
version now in common use." A subscription of three dollars 
per annum entitles a person to membership. A subscription of 
thirty dollars, at one time, constitutes the donor a member for 
life; fifteen dollars per. annum, makes him a director ; and 
the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars, secures him that 
honour for life. 

According to the tenth annual report of this institution, dated 
May, 1826, there had been issued from its Depository, in this 
city, up to that period, 4J0.047 Bibles and Testaments ; ex- 
clusive of a large number issued by the Kentucky Bible Society, 
and printed from the stereotype plates of the New-York insti- 
tution. 

The Society's House, No, 115 Nassau-street, is a large 
commodious edifice, comprising a capacious Depository, an 
extensive Printing apparatus, Bindery, &c. &c. all of which 
are politely shown to strangers, and others, who feel a desire 
to inspect them. 

The following Societies (if they still retain a separate exis- 
tence) have been admitted as auxiliaries to the above ; some 
of them, however, it is believed, have since become compo- 
nent parts of the principal. 

The New-York Bible Society was instituted in November. 
1809. Its concerns are conducted by a President, six Vice- 
Presidents, two Secretaries, a Clerk, Treasurer, and a Board 
of Managers, consisting of thirty-one. Like the Society 
above mentioned, it recognizes no distinction of sect or creeds, 
but assists in circulating the Bible without note or comment. 
The anniversary meeting of this society is on the first Monday 
of December ; and the Board of Managers hold stated meet- 
ings on the third Mondays of January, March, May, July. 
September and November. 

The Auxiliary New-York Bible Society was Instituted in 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 29/ 

June, J 813. Its affairs are managed by a President, four 
Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, Treasurer, Clerk, and seven-^ 
teen Directors, who hold stated meetings on the third Mondays 
of February, August and November. 

The New-York Female Auxiliary Bible Society was insti- 
tuted in :>, ay, 1816, by a number of ladies attached to dif- 
ferent denominations, its affairs are conducted by a first and 
second Directress, a Treasurer, Secretary, and thirty-two 
Managers. Stated meetings, on the first Wednesday of every 
month. 

The Female Juvenile Auxiliary Bible Society was institu- 
ted in October, 1816 ; and the management of its affairs assign- 
ed to a Directress, Treasurer, Secretary, and eight Managers, 
who meet on the second Saturday of every month. 

The Marine Bible Society was institued in March, 1817- 
Its affairs are conducted by a President, four Vice-Presidents, 
two Secretaries, a Treasurer, and thirty-six Managers, who 
meet once every three months. Annual meeting, on the third 
Monday of April. 

The New- York African Bible Society was instituted in 
March, 1817; and its affairs are conducted by a President, 
two Vice-Presidents, a Treasurer, Secretary, and eight Man- 
agers. 

The New- York Union Bible Society was instituted in June 
1816, and its affairs are managed by a President, Vice-Presi- 
dent, two Secretaries, a Treasurer, Clerk, and seven Direc- 
tors, who meet once a month. 

BIBLE AND COMMON PRAYER BOOK SOCIETIES. 

The New-York Bible and Common Prayer Book Society was 
instituted in September, I8O9. Its affairs are under the manage- 
ment of the Bishop of the diocese, who is President ex-offi- 
cio, and by ministers and lay members of the Protestant 
Episcopal Church. 

Auxiliary New-York Bible and Common Prayer Book So- 
ciety. This institution, which was formed on the 26th, of Janu- 
ary, 1810, is governed by a Board of lay members of the 
Protestant Episcopal Church, consisting of a President, three 
Vice-Presidents, two Secretaries, a Treasurer, an Agent, and 
eighteen Managers, who meet every other month. 

RELIGIOUS TRACT SOCIETIES. 

The success which uniformly attended the labours of Religi- 
ous Tract Societies in England, soon encouraged the pious of 



29S RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

our country to undertake the establishment of similar insti- 
tutions. In the year 1809, the first organized society was 
formed in this city, for the dissemination of religious tracts; and 
in the following year the Protestant Episcopal Tract Society 
was instituted. After watching the progress of these societies 
for about two years, the Methodist became convinced of their 
practical efficacy, and erected another, for the dissemination of , 
their own particular tenets, which they termed the New-York Me- 
thodist Tract Society. Other sects soon imitated the lauda- 
ble example ; until, nt thi- moment, there is scarcely a congre- 
gation in the city which is not zealously employing the same 
means to circulate their doctrines throughout their country. 

The American Tract Society was instituted in May, 1805, 
and is composed of different denominations of Christians ; and 
their constitution forbids any two members of the same denomi- 
nation serving in the Publishing Committee ; Nor can any 
Tract he published which has been objected to, by any one mem- 
ber of that committee, Each subscriber of two dollars annu- 
ally, is a member ; and each subscriber of twenty dollars at 
one time is a member for life. Each subscriber of five dollars 
annually, is a Director; and each subscriber of fifty dollars 
at one time, or who, by one additional payment, increases his 
original subscription to fifty dollars, is a Director for life. 
Members are entitled to tracts annually, to the value of one 
dollar ; and Directors to the value of two dollars; or, if pre- 
ferred, they may receive tracts at any one time to the value of 
half the sum given. The Society meet annually, on Wednes- ' 
day immediately preceding the second Thursday in May, at 
their House, No. 144 Nassau-street. The affairs of this insti- 
tution are managed by a Board, consisting of a President, eight- 
teen Vice-Presidents, a Corresponding Secretary, a Recording 
Secretary, a Treasurer, and thirty -six Directors; all of whom 
are chosen at the annual meeting. The Board of Directors 
elect, annually, by ballot, a Publishing Committee, a Distri- 
buting Committee, and a Finance Committee ; each consisting of 
not less than three, nor more than six members. The mem- 
bers of these three committees constitute an Executive Com- 
mittee, to conduct the business of the Society, and are, ex-ojji- 
cio, members of the Board. 

A large and commodious building has been erected for the 
use of this Society, at the corner of Nassau and Spruce-streets, 
near Chatham-street, fronting the Park. This edifice is four 
stories high, exclusive of the basement story, with a front of 
eighty feet on Nassau-street, and a gable end of forty-eight 
feet on Spruce-street. The first floor contains a room for the 



RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 199 

sale of Tracts, and three suits of offices, which are rented 
for other purposes. In the second story are rooms for tht use 
of t;he several Committees, and of the Board, and the general 
Depository of Tracts. The third story is occupied principal- 
ly by the Bindery, Folding-room, and the Stereotype Finish- 
ing-room ; the Foundery being in the basement story. The 
fourth story and garret is occupied by the Printing establish- 
ment ; where power presses are carried by steam, mules, &c. 

The New-York Religious Tract Society was instituted In 
1807, and re-organized in February, 1812. Its affairs have 
since been conducted by a President, two Vice-Presidents, a Sec- 
retary, Treasurer, Clerk, and twenty-four Managers, who are 
chosen, annually on the second Wednesday of February. The 
stated meetings of the Board are on the first Tuesday of every 
other month, beginning with February. During the year ending 
May, 1825, this society issued no less than 754,950 Tracts and 
children's books. They have since resolved to become an Aux- 
iliary to the American Tract Society , and have committed 
to that Institution such of their stereotype plates and engrav- 
ings as were deemed useful by the Publishing Committee, re- 
serving only enough to extinguish the debts of their own So- 
ciety, and provide for the wants of the current year. 

The Female Tract Society was instituted as a branch of the 
foregoing, and is now an Auxiliary of the American Tract 
Society. The ladies who compose it, are very zealous and ac- 
tive in the cause, and have co-operative branches in almost 
every Presbyterian congregation in the city. Their contribu- 
tions to the general society in a few months amounted to $567- 
83 cents. 

Tne Young Men's Auxiliary Tract Society was instituted in 
1815, and in a few months contributed $100 to the funds of 
the parent institution. They also have flourishing Auxiliaries 
in the South Baptist and Seventh Presbyterian churches. 

The New-York Methodist Tract Society was formed in 1812. 
Its affairs are conducted by a President, Treasurer, Secretary, 
and twelve Managers, who are elected, annually, in the 
month of April, and hold stated meetings four times a year. 

The Protestant Episcopal Tract Society was instituted in 
1 810; and holds its annual meetings in November. 

MISSIONARY SOCIETIES. 

The New-York Missionary Society is composed principally 
of members of the Presbyterian denomination, including the 
Reformed Dutch Church. Its object is to evangelize the Indian 
Tribes on the borders of the United States. Its affairs are 
managed by a Board of twenty-one Directors, a President, four 



300 RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. 

Vice-Presidents, a Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, and 
Clerk; all of whom are elected annually, on the first Tuesday 
of April. They hold regular meetings on the first Monday of 
every month. 

The Young Men's Missionary Society, was formed in Janu- 
ary, 1809, as an auxiliary to the foregoing. In February, 1816, 
however, it resolved to appropriate its funds to the sole pur- 
pose of propogating the gospel among white gentiles nearer 
home. What success has attended their exertions, in this re- 
spect, we have never learned. 

The United Foreign Missionary Society, was organized on 
the 28th of July, 1817 ? "inconsequence of a recommenda- 
tion of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, the 
General Synods of the Reformed Dutch, and Associate Reform- 
ed Churches. Its object is to spread the gospel among the 
Indians of .North America, the inhabitants of Mexico and 
South America and in other portions of the heathen andanti- 
christian world." Its concerns are managed by a President, 
six Vice-Presidents, a Corresponding and Recording Secreta- 
ry, a Treasurer, and twelve Managers ; all of whom are elec- 
ted, annually, on the Wednesday preceding the second Thurs- 
day of May, and meet on the fourth Monday of every month. 

The Female Missionary Society, was instituted in the year 
1816, for the purpose of employing a missionary among the 
ignorant and destitute of this city, and its immediate neigh- 
bourhood. The affairs of this society are managed by a First 
and Second Directress, a Treasurer, Secretary, and ten Mana- 
gers, who meet on the second Monday of May and November, 
to transact business. They have also prayer-meetings, on the 
first Tuesday of June, September, December, and March. 

The American Society for Evangelizing the Jews, was insti- 
tuted on the 30th of December, 18 16. Its management is 
assigned to a President, Vice-President, Secretary, a Treasurer, 
and seven Managers; all of whom are elected, annually, on 
the last Monday of December, and meet regularly on the third 
Thursday of every other month, beginning with January. 

The. Socii&k for supporting the gospel among the poor in 
the eiiy" of^eioYork, was instituted in November, 1813, 
" for the purpose of maintaining a. stated preacher to the Aims- 
House, Hospital, Bridewell, Prisons, and other receptacles of 
the indigent and wretched, who are not otherwise supplied with 
the stated ministrations of the gospel.'' The affairs of this 
society are managed by a President, Treasurer, Secretary, and 
six Trustees, who are elected annually, on the first Wednes- 
day of December, and hold quarterly meetings on the first 
Tuesday of February, May, August and November. 



GOVERNMENT OP THE CITY OP NEW-YORK. 301 

Besides the above, there is the Baptist Missionary Society ; 
the Baptist Female Missionary Society ; the Evangelical 
Society of Young Men', all of whom are engaged in the same 
general object. There is also an Episcopal Society, instituted 
for the purpose of procuring funds for the Committee of Mis- 
sions of the Protestant Episcopal Church of this diocese. 



CHAPTER XI. 

GOVERNMENT OP THE CITY OF NEW-YORK. 

The government of this city is vested in a Common Coun- 
cil, consisting of the Mayor, Recorder, fourteen Aldermen, and 
fourteen Assistant Aldermen ; the city being at present divided 
into fourteen wards, each of which is represented in Common 
Council by one Alderman and one Assistant. Every new ward 
that may hereafter be created, will, of course, add two more 
members to the corporation. The stated regular meetings of 
this body for the transaction of business, are held every Mon- 
day evening, at the Council Room, in the City Hall, which is 
fitted up, for that purpose, in an elegant and commodious man- 
ner. The chair for the Mayor is the same that was used by 
General Washington when he presided at the first Congress, 
which was held in this city. It is elevated by a few steps, on 
the south side of the room and surmounted by a canopy. The 
Aldermen sit in a circular form, in the body of the room, and 
at the upper end, immediately below the chair, there is a table 
for the clerk of the council. Neither the Mayor, Recorder, 
nor Aldermen, wear any distinguishing dress or insignia of 
office. 

Besides the power belonging to the Corporation of enacting 
all municipal laws, and of enforcing their observance under 
proper penalties, the Mayor, Recorder, and Aldermen, are 
(by virtue of their office) justices of the peace, having power to 
hold courts of general sessions, and to decide as to all offences 
coming under the cognizance of the regular justices of the 
peace. They are likewise included in the commission of Oyer 
and Terminer for the trial of capital offences ; and hold a 
court of Common Pleas, called the Mayor's Court, in which 
civil actions are tried of every description. Of the latter 
court, the Hon. John T. Irving is now the presiding judge. 

It belongs to the Mayor and Aldermen, who are supervisors 

Cc 



302 GOVERNMENT OF 

of taxes, to regulate all levies of public money, previously 
authorized by the legislature, for supporting the poor, and 
other necessary purposes. All taxes in the city and county 
of New-York are raised by laws, especially enacted for the 
purpose by the legislature. 

On the first Monday of November, annually, the electors of 
each ward choose, by a general ballot, an Alderman, Assistant 
Alderman, two Assessors, one Collector, and two Consables. 
On the first Monday of January following, the new Aldermen 
are sworn into office, after which they choose a Mayor for the 
current year. The Sheriff, Coroner, Register, and Clerk of 
the county, are elected by the people, once in three years, or 
as often as a vacancy happens. The Sheriff can hold no other 
office, and is ineligible for the next three years after his term 
of office expires. 

Every male citizen of the age of twenty-one years, who has 
been an inhabitant of the state one year preceding the annual 
election, and for the last six months, a resident in this city, is 
entitled to a vote at every annual election — provided he has 
paid a tax to the state or county, assessed upon his real or per- 
sonal property, or is by law exempted from taxation — or if, 
being armed and equipped according to law, he has within the 
year, performed military duty in the militia of. this state, — or 
if he be legally exempted from such duty. 

POLICE DEPARTMENT. 

The duties of the Police are discharged by three Justices, 
appointed for the purpose by the Common Council, and re- 
moveable at pleasure. The Chancellor, Justices of the su- 
preme court, and members of the common council, as conser- 
vators of the peace, may attend and assist the police justices. 
A court^is held every day (except Sunday) at which one at 
least of the Justices, and the Police Clerk must be in constant 
attendance, at sunrise, every morning, to take cognizance of 
offences committed during the night, against the good order 
and peace of the city. Besides the ordinary duties of examin- 
ing persons brought up for breaches of the peace, and other 
offences, and binding over the parties to prosecute at the sessions, 
when this appears necessary, the police magistrates possess 
powers, in certain cases, similar to those exercised hy the Al- 
dermen of the city out of the sessions. These relate to illigi- 
timate children, apprentices, servants, vagrants, vagabonds, 
&c. &c. The acceptance of special bail; the administering 
of oaths in causes before the court of common pleas, and the 



THE CITY OP NEW-YORK. 303 

taking of affidavits to be read there, come also within the pow- 
ers of the magistrates of police. For these services, they re- 
ceive the same fees as the Aldermen : and for the discharging 
the other duties of their office, they and their clerk are paid 
an annual salary of seven hundred and fifty dollars each, which 
comes out of the funds of the city; besides fees of office. Re- 
cognizances taken in other counties for the appearance of par- 
ties or witnesses in the city courts ; copies of those taken to 
keep the peace, before any other court in the city ; and those 
from persons licensed to retail spirituous liquors, are all lodged 
in the police office, under the custod}' of the clerk. 

COURTS. 

Mayors Court, or Court of Common Pleas. This tribunal 
holds its sittings on the third Monday of every month, and 
judges in all cases within its jurisdiction, whether real or per- 
sonal. Actions for debt, exceeding $250 may be removed 
from it, at any time before judgment; and after judgment, all 
its decisions, without exception, may be reviewed by the Su- 
preme Court. i he charter of this Court is dated April 22, 
1686. It is supposed to resemble in its form of proceedings the 
Court of King's Bench in England As a Court of Justice, 
the Mayor's Couit of this city stands deservedly high in pub- 
lic estimation. 

Court of Sessions. This court sits on the first Monday of 
every month, and consists of the Recorder, and two Alder- 
men. It determines in all cases of felony, and of offences 
committed within the city, and has power to appoint special 
sessions of the peace for the same purposes, but these are 
never resorted to. The judges composing the Court of Oyer 
and Terminer, consist of the Recorder and Aldermen, assisted 
by one or more of the judges of the Supreme Court, who are 
authorized to meet by a special act of the Legislature, without 
any commission. Three members constitute a court, of whom 
a judge of the Supreme court must be one. This c* urt tries 
all cases of treason, felony, and other inferior crimes. Its 
periods of meeting are fixed by the supreme court. Courts of 
Oyer and Terminer were first established here in 1 683. 

Marine Court. This tribunal consists of three judges, two 
of which must always preside, or no legal decision can be ob- 
tained. They meet every day in the week, (except Sundays, 
and holy-days,) at 10 o'clock, A. M. and are empowered to try 
actions for debt to the amount of, from fifty to one hundred 
dollars 5 to determine as to seamen's wages to any amount 1 



304 GOVERNMENT 0E 

and in actions of assault and battery, or false imprisonment, 
among seamen and passengers. It is distinct from all other 
courts of justices ; has no power to hold sessions of the peace; 
but as to keeping the peace, it has the same power as other 
magistrates. 

Ward District Courts. Besides the Marine Court, there are 
five Assistant Justices, each of which holds a court every day, 
in his particular district. The first district comprises the first, 
second, and third Wards ; the second district comprises the 
fourth and sixth wards; the third district comprises the fifth 
eighth, and fourteenth wards ; the fourth district comprises the 
seventh,tmthand thirteenth wards; and the fifth district com- 
prises the ninth and twelfth wards. At these courts are tried 
questions of debt and trespass to the amount of fifty dollars. 
They also determine cases where penalties are sued for under the 
act for levying duties "on strong liquors, and for regulating inns 
and taverns:" or for violation of the city laws respecting cart- 
men, hackney coachmen, &c. and generally all actions com- 
petent to all other justices in the state, where the amount does 
not exceed fifty dollars. 

CITY NIGHT WATCH. 

Although it is admitted that this department is as well regula- 
ted in the city of New-York, as in any other populous city in the 
United States, yet it is obvious to every one that there is much 
room for improvement. The safety of our lives and property, 
should be entrusted to men worthy of the most implicit confi- 
dence; and to procure such men for our nightly guardians a 
better compensation should be offered than is now given. In- 
deed, the Watch Department of such a city as New- York, 
ought of right to be a guard of honour, entitled to such pay 
and prerogatives, as would make the situation desirable for the 
most respectable of our younger citizens. It ought to be placed, 
at least, on a level with the fire-department, and the same or 
equal priviledges extended to the watchmen ; each of whom 
should give ample security for the faithful discharge of his du- 
ties. After having served a certain number of years, he might 
then retire, and remain for life exempt from military or jury 
duty, while some other enterprising young man succeeded to his 
situation, as guardian of the public safety. Were the De- 
partment permanently placed on such a footing, its benign and 
salutary effects would be speedily felt and acknowledged. 

This department, at present, is under the immediate direc- 
tion of the Corporation ; who appoint in the first instance, six 



THE CITY OP NEW-YORK. 303 

householders, being citizens of the state, to act as " Captains of 
the Night Watch." It is the duty of the Captains, under the 
direction of the Watch Committee, to fix the rounds of the 
Watchmen, prescribe their duties, an: ; visit their stations. 
When a Watchman is guilty of misconduct, the captain of the 
district may suspend him till the pleasure of the Common Coun- 
cil is known. He must make a return, early in the morning, 
to the Justices of the Police, of the number and names of 
watchmen attending the preceding night, and the defaults, if 
any. Each captain receives $1 §7\ cents for every night's 
service in that capacity. 

The watchmen are divided into companies, and to each com- 
pany is added twelve persons denominated substitutes, to act 
in case of absence of the regular watchmen. If found sleep- 
ing, or unnecessarily absent, or intoxicated while on duty, or 
guility of disorderly behaviour, the watchmen are dismissed. 
Their duty is to receive offenders into custody, and to detain 
them until discharged. Their salary is 871 cents for every 
night's services. 

Besides the particular duty allotted to them in their re- 
spective districts, the captains and watchmen, in case of a riot, 
disorder, or on any necessary occasions, must assist those in 
other districts. Captains or Watchmen, who do not obey the 
orders of the members of the corporation, or of the justices of 
the police, are removed from office. 

FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

Previous to the year 1798, the citizens of New- York volunta- 
rily engaged in taking the charge and management of the Fire 
Engines. It having been deemed expedient, however, to cre- 
ate an organized body, placed in a more permanent footing, the 
Legislature granted an act of incorporation, on the 20th day 
of March, in the above year, by which the Firemen of the 
city of New-York were " constituted and declared to be a 
body politic, in fact and in name, by the name of the " Fire- 
Department :" — to continue until the first Tuesday in April, 
1810. On the 12th of April, 1816, this charter was renew- 
ed for a longer term, which will not expire until the first of 
May, 1838. 

By the rules and regulations of the Common Council, a 
Chief Engineer is appointed, with a salary of $800 dollars 
per annum, to whom is confided the sole and absolute con- 
troul 'over all persons belonging to the fire-department ; the 
charge of the fire engines, fire buckets, houses, and all othey 

Cc 2 



JOG GOVERNMENT OF 

fire apparatus. These he examines twice every year, and re- 
ports to the Common Council as to their condition, together with 
the names of the members of the different associations ; which 
report is published in the newspapers every month of January. 
He also reports all accidents by fire, the number and descrip- 
tion of the buildings destroyed or injured, the names and oc- 
cupations of the sufferes, and the probable causes of the fire, 
which are registered by the City Inspector. 

Fire Wardens are appointed by the Common Council ; and 
attached to such company in the ward, having an engine, as 
the Mayor judges proper. 

They receive a certificate of appointment under the seal 
of the Mayorality. In every ward they form separate compa- 
nies, choose, amongst themselves, a Foreman and Clerk, and 
make regulations for their own government. 

Vacancies are filled up on the recommendation of the Chief 
Engineer, but none are eligible unless they have been firemen 
for five years. Fire wardens proceed to the spot, on an alarm 
of fire, assist in procuring water to the engines, prevent the 
hose from being trodden on ; and keep idle and suspected per- 
sons at a distance. In the months of June and December 
they examine all fire-places, hearths, chimnies, stoves and 
pipes, ovens, boilers, kettles, &c. and if defective, order the 
owners immediately to repair them ; the penalty of non-com- 
pliance with these orders, is twenty-five dollars. They also 
examine all buildings, livery and other stables, hay-boats or 
vessels, and places where gunpowder, hemp, flax, tow, hay, 
rushes, firewood, boards, shingles, shavings, or other com- 
bustible materials, may be lodged, and give orders for their re- 
moval, or safe custody, under a penalty of twenty-five dol- 
lars. Reports of disobediance of orders to be made by the war- 
dens to the Foreman, under a penalty often dollars 

The firemen are divided into companies, and choose a Fore- 
man, Assistant, and Clerk, out of their own number. Their 
duty is to convey the engines to where a fire breaks out, and 
to work them under the direction of the engineer. To accus- 
tom them to this, and to keep the engines in order, the firemen 
draw them out, work and clean them, in the months of May, 
June, July, August, September, October, and November: 
penalty of not attending a fire, three dollars ; of neglecting 
to cleanse the engine one dollar, besides being liable to dismis- 
sal. Firemen also receive a certificate of appointment. As 
distinguishing badges at fires, the members of the Common 
Council carry a wand with a gilded plume at the top ; the 
Engineer wears a leather Gap, painted white, with a gilded 






THE CITY OF NEW-YORK. 30? 

front; and a fine engine blossomed thereon, and carry a speak- 
ing trumpet, painted black, with the words " Chief Engineer," 
•'Engineer No. 1," &c. in white painted on their caps. The 
fire-wardens wear a hat, the brim black, the crown painted 
white, with the city arms blazoned on the front, and carry a 
speaking trumpet, painted white, with the word " Warden" in 
black. The firemen, have also their distinguishing badges. 

When a building takes fire in the night, notice is immediate- 
ly given, by the watchmen, to all the members of the Com- 
mon Council, engineers, fire-wardens, foremen, and bell- 
ringers, within their districts. The watchmen call out "Fire!" 
the bells are set a ringing, and the inhabitants place lighted 
candles at their windows, to facilitate the passage through the 
streets: — neglect of duty in watchmen, subjects to a penalty 
of one hundred dollars. 

Constables and Marshalls of the city attend, with their 
staves of office, and obey the orders of the members of the 
Corporation, under a penalty of ten dollars. No vessels, or 
other obstructions to be placed in the way of floating engines 
on the river, under a penalty of fifty dollars. 

The occupier of every dwelling-house, in which a chim- 
ney, stove-pipe, or flue takes fire, through neglect is liable to 
a penalty of $5 dollars. Carpenters must cause their shav- 
ings to be carefully put away every day after work, under a 
penalty of $5 dollars. To light a fire in any street, road, or 
lane, (except for boiling tar, not six feet from the end of the 
way,) subjects to a penalty of $10 dollars. Hay or straw in 
any stack or pile uncovered, within a certain district — and hay, 
straw, hemp, flax, shavings, or rushes, kept in any building, 
not built of stone or brick, and covered with tile or slate 
within ten feet of any dwelling-house or chimney, subject to a 
penalty of $25 dollars, and ten dollars for every twenty-four 
hours they remain after notice of removal. To use a lighted 
lamp or candle in a storehouse, unless securely placed in a 
lantern, forfeits ten dollars.* 

At the last annual report of the Chief Engineer, (Jameson 
Cox, Esq.) dated June 5th 1826, there were in the city, forty- 
two Engines in good order, and four Engines in indifferent 
order, five Hook and Ladder trucks, and one Hose Waggon, 
eight thousand seven hundred and thirty-four feet of good 
Hose, eight hundred and fifty-one feet of ordinary, and seventy- 
one feet of bad, making in the whole, (including six hundred 
feet at the New Alms-house,) ten thousand two hundred and 
fifty-six feet; also, two hundred and fifty-five fire Buckets, in 

Vide Picture of Piew-York. 



308 TRADE, COMMERCE 

good order. Also, twenty-eight Ladders and thirty Hooks. 
The total number of Men belonging to the Fire Department, 
when the Companies are full, including the Engineers and 
Fire- Wardens, is one thousand three hundred and forty-seven. 

MUNICIPAL OFFICERS. 

The following is a list of the Civil (. officers in the City and 
County of New- York. Those distinguished by an asterisk 
(*) are elected by the people, at the General Election, on the 
first Monday of November, annually. A section (§; denotes 
those who are elected once in three years. The others are ap- 
pointed by the Common Council, and removable at pleasure; 
excepting the Recorder, and other Judicial Officers, who are 
appointed in the manner prescribed by the seventh section of 
the fourth article of the New Constitution of the state. 

Mayor, Recorder, * Aldermen, * Assistant do. § Sheriff, 
§ Register, § Coroner, § Clerk of the County, Clerk of the 
Common Council, Chamberlain, Comptroller, Collector of 
City Revenue, Collector of Arrearages of Taxes, Collectors 
of Assessments, Street Commissioner, Assistant do. Superin- 
tendant of Streets, Assistant do, City Inspector, Assistants 
do- Superintendants of Repairs, Counsellor to the Board, 

Attorney, do. Public Administrator, Surrogate, Judge of 

the Court of Common Pleas, Judge of General Sessions, 
Judge of the Marine Court, Justices of Ward District Courts, 
Clerks of do. Police Justices, Clerks of do. Marshalls of do. 
First Marshall, High Constable, * Assessors, * Collectors, 
* Constables, Health officer, Resident Physician, Health Com- 
missioner, Superintendant of the Alms-House, Commissioners 
of do. Clerk of do. House Physician and Surgeon Bellevue, 
Keeper of the Penitentiary. , Assistants do. Physician of the 
City Prison, Keeper of do. Keeper of Potters-Field, Keeper 
of the City Hall, Assistant do. Printers to the Corporation, 
City Surveyors, Clerks of the Markets, Inspector of Hacks, 
Wharf Contractors, Inspector of Weights and Measures, Seal- 
ers of do. Regulater of Public Clocks, Engineers and Wardens 
of the Fire Department, Captains of the Watch Districts, In- 
spectors, Guagers, Weighers, Measurers, &c. 



CHAPTER XII. 

TRADE, COMMERCE AND MANUFACTURES. 

The location of the city of New- York is admirably adapted 
to the purposes of Commercial Enterprise. On either side is 



AND MANUFACTURES. 



309 



a majestic river, communicating with the most fertile regions 
of the Western, Northern, and Eastern sections of the United 
States ; and before her is an arm of the ocean unequalled for 
beauty and convenience by any other Bay in the world. This, 
with very few and rare exceptions, is open and unobstructed 
at all seasons in the year. With such superior natural advanta- 
ges, and a corresponding spirit of enterprise in her citizens, 
there is no wonder thai this city has become the grand empori- 
um of the Western World. The revenue collected at this 
port, amounts to about one fourth of the whole sum collected 
by the General Government throughout the United States ! 
From this circumstance alone may be derived some idea of her 
commercial greatness ; but when the view is extended to her 
inland trade, by means of navigable rivers, and a Canal of 
near four hundred miles in length, the idea must be much en- 
larged, and will consequently aproximate nearer to a correct 
estimate. 

The following table of exports, customs, and tonnage, du- 
ring the respective years, will show the increase of commerce, 
since the year 1814, at which period our country was involv- 
ed in war with Great Britain. 



YEAR, 
A. D. 

1815 

1816 
1817 

1818 
1819 
1820 
1821 
1822 
1823 
1824 
1825 
1826 



EXPORTS TOTAL. 

DOMESTIC. I FOREIGN. ] A. OF EX. 



CUSTOMS. ITONNAGK 
DUTIES. 



4,189,951 746,558 
10,475,985 3,470,613 
12,639,197 4,384,817 
11,873,934 5,720,237 

6,542,742 4,318,923 
. 7,034,312 4,735,199 

8,102,522 4,022 123 

9,228,631 6,177,063 
11,526,632 9,563,064 
1 1,657,31 2 10,652,050 
L9,257,749!l4,774,530 
10,743,846 8,693,383 



4,936,509 
13,946,598 
17,024,014 
17,594,171 
10,861,665 
11,769,511 
12,124,645 
15,405,694 
21,089,696 
22,309,362 
34,032,279 
19,437,229 



14,554,645 

10,785,354 

6,329,123 

8,259,011 

6,480,633 

5,487,974 

7,243,542 

9,941702 

9,022,435 

11,178,139 

15,752,100 

11,525,862 



Hb 



GOMMF.RCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS. 



It will naturally be supposed that such a rapid increase of 
trade as New-York has experienced since the revolution, must 
have given existence to a corresponding number of commer- 
cial establishments. Rut whether the increase of such estab- 
lishments be in exact ratio with the progress of commerce or 
not, it is a fact that there are now (1827) in this city, in sue- 



310 TRADE COMMERCE 

cessful operation, sixteen Banks, with an aggregate capital of 
^16,500,000 ; ten Marine Insurance Companies, whose com- 
bined capitals amount to $4,600,000; and thirty-one Fire 
Insurance Companies, with capitals proportionally liberal ! 
All these together with other monied institutions, will be treat- 
ed of in the proper place. * 

CUSTOM HOUSE. 

This edifice is located in Wall-street, corner of Nassau-street 
on the site of the old City Hall. It is a handsome brick building, 
four stories in height, fronting the head of Broad-street, where 
[ire situated the Public Stores, attached to this < stablishment. 

The hours of doing business are from 10 o'clock A. M. un- 
til 3 o'clock, P. M. But Entries must be made before one 
o'clock. There is a collector, two Deputy Collectors, a Cash- 
ier, an Auditor, a Navel Officer, Deputy Navel Officer; Sur- 
veyor and Inspector Deputy do. four Inspectors of the Reve- 
nue, and sixteen Clerks, who have desks in the public rooms, 
to which there is every facility of access. This department 
takes cognizance of all goods, wares, and merchandize, import- 
ed into New- York, in American or foreign ships or vessels ; 
and also all passengers. 

With respect to passengers, it is required by law that an 
entry be made at the Custom House, on their arrival, of their 
names, clothes, tools, or impliments of trade or professions, 
(all which are exempt from duty) and an oath taken respecting 
them ; the form of which, and of the entry, to be had at the 
office gratis. Cabin passengers make this entry themselves, 
and pay twenty cents each for a permit ; on exhibiting 
which, to the Custom House Officer on board, they are allow- 
ed to remove their baggage, after it has been inspected. Only 
one entry and pe mit is necessary for a family, and only twen- 
ty cents demanded, whatever may be the number of the fami- 
ly. Remains of sea-stores, such as tea, sugar, foreign spirits, 
and wines, are liable to pay duties ; but unless these are 
of great bulk or quantity, they are generally allowed to pass 
free. 

An entry is usually made, by the master ofitr/e vessel ; of 
the steerage passengers and their baggage; they pay each 
twenty cents for a permit. When entry is made by any per- 
son not the owner; he gives bonds for payment of the duties, 
if any ; and if, after entry is made at the Custom House, and 
the oath taken, any article liable to pay duty is found belong- 
ing to a passenger, and not specified in the entry, it is forfeited . 



AND MANUFACTURES. 313 

and the person in whose baggage the article is found, subject- 
ed in trebl' the value. 

In addition to the foregoing regulations, it is provided by a 
law of the state, that every master of a vessel arriving from a 
foreign country, or from any other of the United States, " shall, 
within twenty-four hours after entering his vessel at the Custom 
House, make a report in writing, on oath, to the Mayor; or 
in case of his sickness or absence to the Recorder of the said 
city, of the name, age, and occupation, of every person who 
shall have been brought as passenger in such ship or vessel on 
her last voyage, upon pain of forfeiting, for every neglect or 
omission to make such report, the sum of seventy-five dollars 
for every alien, and the sum of fifty dollars for every other 
person neglected to be so reported as aforesaid." The mas- 
ter must also give bond, that none of his passengers shall 
become chargeable upon the poor rates of the city for the 
space of two years. If he permit an alien to come ashore be- 
fore he grants this bond, he subjects himself to a penalty of jive 
hundred dollars. 

Fees of office to the Collector and Naval Officer. — Entry 
of a vessel of 100 tons or upwards, two dollars and fifty cents ; 
Clearance of a vessel of 100 tons or upwards, two dollars and 
fifty cents; Entry of a vessel under 100 tons, one dollar and 
fifty cents; Clearance of a vessel under 100 tons, one dollar 
and fifty cents; Every post Entry, two dollars; Permit to 
land goods, twenty cents ; Every Bond taken officially, forty- 
cents ; Permit to load goods, for re-exportation for draw- 
back, thirtv cents ; Debenture or other official certificate, 
twenty cents: Bill of health, twenty cents; Official document 
(register excepted) required by any person, twenty cents. 

To the Surveyor. — Admeasuring and certifying the same, of 
every ship or vessel of 1.00 tons and under, per ton one cent ; 
Admeasurement of every ship or vessel above 100 tons, and 
not exceeding 200 tons, one dollar and fifty cents; Above 200 
tons, two dollars; For all other services on board any ship or 
vessel of 100 tons or upwards, having on board goods, wares, 
or merchandize, subject to duty, three dollars; For like ser- 
vices on board any ship or vessel of less than 100 tons, one 
dollar and fifty cents ; On all vessels not having on board 
goods, wares or merchandize, subject to duty, 66 2-3. 



312 



TRADE, COMMERCE 
TARES ALLOWED BY LAW. 



On Candles in boxes- - 8^ 
Cheese in hampers or 

baskets 10 

Do. in boxes 20 

Chocolate in boxes - - 10 

Coffee in bags .2 

in bales 3 

in casks 12 



Cocoa in bags - - - 

in casks - - - 

Cotton in bales - - 

in seroons 

Indigo in barrels -- 
in other casks 



-in seroons 

-in bags or mats 



■ 1 
10 

- 2 

- 6 
12 
15 
10 

- 3 



Nails in casks - 8 

Pimento in casks - - - - 16 

in bags 3 

Pepper in casks - - - - 12 

in bales 5 

in bags 2 

above to include ropes, 



Sugar, other than loaf 
sugar, in casks - . 12 
Sugar in boxes - - 15 

in mats or bags - 5 

Salts, Glauber - - - - 8 



The 
all other 
thereof. 



Sugar Candy in boxes 10 | c, 
Soap in boxes . - - - 10 j 
Shot in casks - - - 3 J 
Every whole chest of ^ 

Bohea Tea 70 ( 

half 36 j 

quarter 20 1 

Every chest of Hyson 
or other Green Tea, of j 
701b. or upwards 20 ^ 
Every box of other Tea | 
between 50 and 70 

lbs. 18 j 

Every Box of other Tea f 

if i 'Olbs. - . - - - 20 | 

j Do. do. if from 801bs. | 

and upwards . - - 22 j 

canvass, and other coverings. — On 



boxes of teas, according to the invoice or actual weight 



TARES ALLOWED BY CUSTOM. 



Alum in bags - - 

in casks 

Almonds in cases - 8 

in bales - - 8 

double bales 16 



. — in pags 

Coffee in boxes 

in seroons 

Cheese in cks. or tubs 
Cocoa in seroons 
Copperass in casks 
Cassia in boxes - 

in mats - 

Cinnamon in boxes 

in bales 

Cloves in casks - 

in bags - 

Currants in casks 

in boxes 

Figs in boxes - 

in mats or frails 

in drums - 

in casks - - 

Glue in casks - 



5 lbs. 
10 pr. c 

pr. c 
lbs. 
lbs. 

4 
15 

6 
15 

8 
10 
18 

6 
25 

6 
12 

4 
12 
10 
10 

4 

8 
12 
20 



Lead in casks - - - 
Nails in bags 
Nutmegs in casks 

in bags - 

Ochre (in oil) in casks 

(dry) do. - 

Powder Gun in qr. casks 
•half qr casks 



-whole do 



Plumbs in boxes 
Prunes in boxes - 
Paris White in casks 
Raisins in jars 

in boxes - - 

in casks 

in frails - - 

in drums - 



11 

■s 

12 I 
10 J 

n 

23 J 
8 
- 8 

10 
18 lbs. 

• 12 I 
- I 

} 



Snuff in boxes - - 
Sugar Candy in tubs 
Sugar in loaves - 
Steel - per bundle, 
Sheet iron in casks - 
Steel in cases and casks - 8 
Spikes in casks - - - - 8 



- 10 

- 15 [ 
- 15 J 

1 1-4 lbs 

- 3 lbs 

m 



AND MANUFACTURES. 



31; 



Glue in boxes - - 

Hemp in bales 

Indigo in cases - - 

Lead (white in oil) kegs 

Do. do. if the kegs are 
packed in hhds. 100 
lbs. extra is allowed 
for the hogshead. 

Lead(whitedry) incks. 

(red dry) in cks. 

• (red in oil do 



15 

5 

15 

8 



6 
5 

10 



> u 



Spikes in bags - 
Tallow in bales 

in casks - 

in seroons 

in tubs - 
Twine in boxes 

in casks 

in bales - 

Tobacco in boxes 
Wire in casks - 
Whiting in casks 



3 
- 8 
12 

8 
15 
15 
12 

3 
15 

8 
10J 



• WARDENS OP THE PORT. 

Office 55 Wall-street. 
Vessels and goods arriving in a damaged state, and requir- 
ed to be sold at auction for the benefit of underwriters out of 
the city of New- York, must be under the inspection of the 
wardens, who may be required to certify the cause of the dam- 
age, and amount of sale and charges. Fees as follov/s : — l\ 
per cent, on gross amount of sales ; and for each survey on 
board of any vessel, at any store, or along the docks or wharves. 
$3 on damaged goods; each survey on hull, spars, rigging, 
&c. $5 ; each certificate $1,25 ; do. of distress of said vessel 
$2,50; same services for vessels paying foreign duties and 
tonnage, double. 

HARBOUR MASTERS. 

Office corner of Fulton and Water Streets. 

Fees. — On vessels unloading \\ cents per ton. Vessels 
paying foreign duties and tonnage, double ; which must be paid 
within 48 hours after arrival. 

Schooners and Sloops in the coasting Trade, 2 dollars. For 
adjusting any difference respecting situation, 2 dollars. 

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 



Sealers' Fees. — Beams, Yard and Dry Measure, 12 \ cents 
each. Liquor Do. 3 cents. Weights 3 to 6 
reasonable compensation for adjusting. 



cents, with a 



INSPECTORS' FEES. 



Every wt. of 14lbs. or upwards, cts. 3 

of smaller denomination, 1\ 

Every liquid measure, - -- ------- 2 

IE very yard, and dry measure, --------3 

Every scale beam, '---3 

Dd 



2Lt 



TRADE, COMMERCE j 



RATES OF STORAGE. 



Chargeable per month, as established by the New-York 
Chamber of Commerce at a stated meeting held on the second 
of March, 1819. 



cents. 
Almonds in frails or pack. cwt. 6 
Alum in casks or bags per ton 40 
Ashes, pot and pearl, bbl. - 8 

Beef, bbl. 6 

Bottles, qt. in mats cr or hmp.gr. 8 
Bark, quercitron in casks, ton 60 
Bagging cot. loose or in bales, pc 3 
Butter in firkins of 60 lbs per fir. 2 
Brandy, see Liquors. 
Candles, bxs of50or601bs. bx. 2 
Chocolate in bxs. of 50 lbs. box 2 
Cocoa, in bags, per cwt. - 2^ 

in casks do. - - - - 3 

Coffee, in casks, do. 1\ 

in bags, do. . - - - 2 

Copperas, hi casks, per ton. 40 
Copper in pigs. - do - - 20 

in sheets or bolts, ton 30 

braziers bottoms, ton 75 

Cordage, per ton, - - - - 50 
Cassia, in mats or bxs per cwt 10 
Cotton Am- in sq bales, 3001bs 12i 
— — — do. in round bales do. 16 

W.I. in proportion to round 

E.I. in bales, per 3001bs. 9 

Cheese, casks, bxs or loose, cwt 3 
Duck, heavy, per bolt, • 1£ 

,Ravens or Russia sheet, pc. \ 

Dry gds. in bxs or b. 40 cu. ft 40 
Fish, pickled per bbl. - - - 6 

dry in cks. or boxes cwt. 4 

— — . in bulk, per cwt 2£ 

Figs, in frails bxs or drums cwt. 2| 

Flax, per ton, 60 

Flaxseed, or other dry articles in 
tierces of 7 bushs. per tierce, 10 
Flour, or other dry arti. in bbls.4 
Earthen in crates of 25 to 30 ft. 15 

inhhds. of 40 to 50 ft. 30 

Grain, in bulk, per bushel, - 1 
Ginger, in bags, per cwt. - - 2 
Glass, window, in boxesof 50 ft. lg 
Gin, see Liquors. 
Hemp, per ton, 75 



cents. 
Hides, dried or salted, per hide 1^ 
Hardware in casks of 40 cu.ft. 40 
Indigo in seroons or bxs pr cwt. 4 
Iron, in bars or bolts, per ton 20 

in hoops, shts. or nailrods,t.30 

Liquors in puns of 120 gals pr p 3 

in quarter casks, - 6£ 

in pipes or cks 120 g 30 

bottled in cks. or bxs. dz. b I.J 

Leather, per side, - - - - 1 
Lard in firkins of 601bs. - - 2 
Lead pig or sheet, per ton, - 20 

— dry or gr in oil per ton 40 

Molasses, per hhd. of 110 gals. 

(other casks in proportion) 30 
Nails in casks, per cwt, - - 2 
Oil in hhds. or casks 110 galls. 30 - 

in chests of 30 flasks per ch 4 

bot'd in bxs or baskets doz. \\ 

Paints, in casks or kegs, ton 40 
Pork, per bbl ----- 6 
Porter see Liquors. 
Pepper in bags per cwt. - - 
Pimento in casks or bags cwt. 
Rice, in tierces, per tierce - 

in half do, per half do. 

Rags, in bales, per cwt. - - 
Raisins, Malaga in casks, - - 
do. in boxes, - - 



12 
8 
6 
3 
1 



-in other pack, per cwt 2 



Rum, see Liquors. 
Saltpetre in bags per cwt. 
•in casks per cwt. 



24 



Salt in bags or bulk per bushel, 1 
Shot, in casks per ton, - - 37 
Soap, in boxes of 50 to 601bs. 2 
Steel in bars or bundles per ton 30 

-in boxes or tubs per ton, 40, 

Sugar, raw in bs. or bxs pr cwt 2 

do in casks, per cwt. 2i 

refined, in casks or pack. 3 

'I allow, in casks or seroons, ct. 
Tea, bohea, in whole chests, 

do in half chests - 



AND MANUFACTURES. 315 



cents. 
Tea, green or black in qr. chests 4£ 

— in bxs in proportion to qr cli 

Tin, block, per ton, • - - 20 

in bxs. of usual size, pr. bx 1£ 

Tobacco, in hhds. per hhd. - 37| 
in bales or ser'ns, pr cwt 4 



cents. 
Tobacco,manf. in kegs of lOOlbs 2 
Wines, see Liquors. 
Woods, fordying, under covert. 50 
do. in yards - - - 25 



Whiting, in hdds. per ton - 37£ 



On articles on which the rate is fixed by weight, it is under- 
stood to be on the gross weight, and on Liquors, Oil, &c. on 
which the rate refers to gallons, it is understood to be on the whole 
capacity of the casks, whether full or not. — The proprietor of 
Goods to be at the expense of putting them in store, stowing 
away, and turning out of store. — All goods taken on stor- 
age, to be subject to one month's storage ; if taken out 
within 15 days after the expiration of the month, to pay 
half a month's storage; if after 15 days, a whole month's sto- 
rage. 

RATES OP PILOTAGE. 

Every Pilot who shall take charge of any vessel to the east 
ward or southward of the White Buoy, on the Eastern Ridge, 
near the Bar, an;i conducts and moors safely such vessel to a 
proper wharf; or from the city to the southward or eastward 
oi said buoy, is entitled by law, to the following rates, to wit: 
— For vessels of the U. States, and those who are entitled by 
treaty to enter upon the same terms as American vessels, the 
sums which follow : — Every vessel drawing less than 14 feet, 
1,50 cents per foot. Do. drawing 14 feet, and less than 18, 1 
75 cents per foot. Do. drawing 18 feet or upwards, 2,25 
cents per foot. The same rates of pilotage to be allowed, for 
any vessel that may be piioted any where "-ithin the Hook, 
whose master or owner does not wish the same to e brought 
to the city wharves. Half pilotage to be allowed ?o any pilot 
who shall take charge of a vessel to westward of the White 
Buoy. No pilotage whatsoever to be given to any pilot, un- 
less he shall take charge of a vessel to the southward of the 
upper Middle Ground, nor unless such vessel shall be of 70 tons 
burthen, provided the usual signal be not given, in which case 
half pilotage is to be allowed. Between the first day of No- 
vember and the first of April, inclusive, four Dollars addition- 
al to be allowed, for vessels of ten feet water and upwards ; if 
less than ten feet, two dollars. One fourth additional to be 
given to the pilots, who shall take charge of vessels out of 
sight of the Light House. For every day any pilot shall be 
required to remain on board, three dollars per day. Foreign 



316 TRADE, COMMERCE, 

vessels not entitled by treaty to enter on the same terms as 
those of the U. S. to pay one-fourth additional to the pilots, 
and also five dollars over and above the foregoing rates of 
pilotage. 

RATES OF COMMISSIONS. 

Recommended for general adoption, and allowed by the 
New-York Chamber of Commerce, when no agreement subsists 
to the contrary, established at a stated meeting on the 2d of 
March, 1819. 

ON FOREIGN BUSINESS. 

On the Sale of Merchandise, 5 per cent. — Sale or Purchase 
of Stocks, 1 per cent — Specie, \ per cent — Purchase and 
Shipment of Merchandise, with funds in hand : — on the ag- 
gregate amount of costs and charges, 2\ percent — Drawing 
or endorsing Bills in all cases, 2\ per cent — Vessels Selling or 
Purchasing, 2\ per cent — Procuring Freight, 5 per cent — ■ 
Collecting Freight on general average, 2\ percent — Outfits or 
disbursements, with funds in hand, 2 \ per cent — Effecting Ma- 
rine Insurance, in all cases, when the premium does not ex- 
ceed 10 per cent, on the amount insured, \ P^ r cenl — When 
the premium exceeds 10 per cent, on the amount of premium, 
5 per cent — Collecting Dividends on Stock, \ per cent — Col- 
lecting delayed or litigated accounts, 5 per cent — Adjusting 
and collecting Insurance Losses, 2\ per cent — Receiving and 
paying Monies, from which no other commission is derived, 
1 per cent — Remittances in Bills, in all cases, \ per Gent — 
Landing and re-shipping Goods, from vessels in distress on 
the value, 2\ per cent — Receiving and forwarding Goods, 
entered at the Custom-House, on the value, 1 — and 2\ per 
cent on responsibilities incurred. 

ON INLAND BUSINESS. 

On the Sale of Merchandise, 2\ per cent — Purchase and 
Shipment of Merchandise, or accepting for Purchases, with- 
out funds or property in hand, 2 \ ppr cent — Sale or Purchase 
of Stocks, 1 per cent — Sale or purchase of Specie, \ per cent 
— Sale of Bills of Exchange with endorsement, \ per cent — 
Sale of Bank Notes or Drafts not current, \ per cent — Selling 
or endorsing Bills of Exchange, 2\ per cent — Selling or Pur- 
chasing Vessels, 2| per cent — Chartering to proceed to other 
ports to load, 2\ per cent — Procuring or collecting Freight. 
2\ per cent — Outfits or Disbursements, 2\ per cent — Collect- 
ing general average, 2\ per cent — Effecting Marine Insuranc- 
es, in all cases, when the premium does not exceed 10 per cent 



AND MANUFACTURES. 31? 

oh the amount insured, £ per cent — When the premium ex- 
ceeds 10 per cent, on the amount of premium, 5 per cent, — 
Adjusting and collecting Insurance Losses, 2\ percent — Col- 
lecting Dividends on Stocks, \ per cent — Collecting Bills, and 
paying over the amount, or receiving and paying Monies from 
which no other Commission is derived, 1 per cent — Iteceiv- 
ing and forwarding Goods, on the value, \ P er cent — The 
same when entered for duty or Debenture. 1 per cent — Remit- 
tances in Bills, in all cases, \ per cent. 

The above Commissions to be exclusive of the guarantee 
of debts for sales on Credit, Storage, Brokerage, and every 
other charge actually incurred. — The risk of loss by fire, un- 
less Insurance be ordered, and of robbery, theft, and other 
unavoidable occurrences, if the usual care be taken to secure 
the property, is in all cases to be borne by the proprietor of 
the goods. — When bills are remitted for collection, and are 
returned under protest, for non-acceptance or non-payment, 
the same commission to be charged as though they were duly 
honoured. On Consignment of Merchandise, withdrawn or 
re-shipped — Full Commission to be charged to the extent of 
advances or responsibilities incurred, and half Commission on 
the residue of the value. 

TARIFF FOR WEIGHERS. 

Anchors, Stills, Cambooses, percwt. 15cts; Cables per cwt. 
20 cents ; Old Rigging, Junk, Old Copper, Old Brass, Old 
Iron, Cork, Wood, Deer Skins, Moss and Oakum when 
loose, Iron, Hollow Ware, and Sassafrass Root, cwt. 10 
cents; — Brazilletto Wood, Hatch Wood, Carrots of Tobac- 
co, Iron Wire, Hams, Fish, Fruit in boxes or drums, Snake 
Root, and other medicinal Roots, Camwood, cwt. 5 cents ; — 
Hemp, Flax, Hides, Grind Stones, Cassia in bundles, Bra- 
zil Sugar in large boxes, Nicaragua Wood, cwt. 4 cents; — 
Loose Cheese, Loose Twine, Drugs, Dye Stuffs, Rolls of Siieet 
Lead, Copper in sheets, Brass and Zinc in Sheets, Cocoa, Pi- 
menta, Pepper, and Almonds, cwt. 3 cents; Cotton, per 
bale, 8 cents; Kentucky Tobacco in hhds. per hhd. 25 cents; 
Virginia and other heavy Tobacco, hhd. 31 \ cents ; — Rolls 
of Hempen Yarn, each 20 cents ; — Deer Skins and other 
Peltry, Hay, Wool, Feathers, Moss, Oa*um in bales or 
bundles, Indigo, Cassia in boxes, cwt. 10 cents; — Kegs of 
Tobacco, Lard, Butter, Raisins, Nails, each, 4 cents : — Indi- 
go, Rhubarb, Barks in seroons, Cheese in casks, Tobacco 
in bales, each, 6 cents; — Bohea Tea, chest, 10 cents j — per 

Dd 2 



318 RATES OF POSTAGE. 

half chest, 6 cents ; — Other Teas, 4 cents ; — All other arti- 
cles not enumerated, 2 cents per 100 lbs. if amounting to 10 
dollars ; but if under 10 dollars, 1 cent per lOOlbs. to be allowed. 
It is the duty of every Weighmaster, if required, to make 
a return of the respective articles so weighed, and where it 
can be done, to mark on each the weight in blacking or red 
chalk, in legible and durable figures. All weighmasters must 
attend personally, (except in sickness or inability) to the du- 
ties of their offices, and if any shall ask or receive any thing 
more for his services than is allowed as above, forfeits 50 dol- 
lars. One scale only to be used by each Weighmaster, under a 
like penalty. For moving scales, a sum not exceeding one 
dollar is to be allowed. 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. 

This important and respectable institution was formed as 
long ago as the year 1768, by twenty merchants who associated 
(i for the purpose of promoting and extending all just and law- 
ful commerce : and for affording relief to decayed members, 
their widows and children." They obtained a charter on the 
17th, March, 1770, by which they are enabled to hold prop- 
erty to the value ot ,£3000 sterling per annum ; and on the 13th 
of April, 1784, these privileges were confirmed and perpet- 
uated by the state legislature. The Chamber of Commerce 
holds its annual meetings on the first Tuesday of May : and 
on the first Tuesday of every month, there is also a general 
meeting, at which a committee of five are appointed to deter- 
mine all mercantile disputes subsisting between the members; 
it being a settled law of the Chamber, that they shall " submit 
all disputed matters of accounts in which they may be concern- 
ed with each other, to the final arbitration or determination 
either of the monthly committee, or of such of the members 
as may be chosen by the parties or the corporation collectively, 
on pain of being expelled the Chamber. 

The Chamber of Commerce holds its meetings in the new 
Exchange, in Wall-street; in the basement story of which is 
conveniently located 

THE POST OFFICE. 

The elegant and capacious rooms appropriated to this de* 
partment are on the South-east wing of the Exchange in Gar- 
den-street ; but are approached also from Wall-street, through 



POST DAYS AT KfiW-YORK. 310 

an arched entrance on each side of the portico. It is the most 
convenient establishment of the kind in the United States. 

RATES OP POSTAGE. 

Single Letters. — Any distance not exceeding 30 miles, C 
cents; Over 30 and not exceeding 80 miles, 10 cents ; Over 
80 and not exceeding 150 miles, 12^ cents ; Over 150 and not 
exceeding 300 miles, 18| cents: Over 400 miles, 25 cents.— 
Double Letters, or those composed of two pieces of paper ? 
are charged with double those rates. — Triple and Quadruple 
Letters, charged accordingly. Every Packet composed of 
four or more pieces of paper, and weighing one ounce, or 
more, is to be charged with single postage for each quarter of 
an ounce; except letters conveyed by water-mails, which are 
not to be charged with more than quadruple postage, unless the 
packets actually contain more than four distinct letters. Ship 
Letters not carried by Mail, 6 cents. — Each Newspaper car- 
ried not over 100 miles, 1 cent; Over 100 miles, \\ do. But if 
carried to any Post Office in the state in which it is printed, what- 
ever may be the distance, 1 cent. — Magazines and pamphlets 
are rated by the sheet, Not over 50 miles per sheet, 1 cent£ 
Over 50 and not over 100 miles, 1^ cents; Greater distances, 2 
cents; Periodical or regular Pamphlets, not over 100 miles 1| 
cents; over 100 miles, 2\ cents; not periodical under 100 
miles, 4 cents; over 100 miles, 6 cents a sheet. 

Letters going out of the United States, must be paid for, when 
lodged in the Post Office, except for Upper and Lower Canada,, 
Ayhich are forwarded to the lines without being paid for. 

POST DAYS AT NEW-YORK. 

The Eastern Mail is closed every day at half past 7 o'clock,. 
A. M. and arrives daily at 7 o'clock, A. M. 

The Southern Mail is closed daily at 2 o'clock, P. M. and 
also for Philadelphia at 5 A. M. and arrives every day at 
7 o'clock, A. M. 

The Tennessee, Western Alabama, Louisiana, New-Orleans t 
Mississippi, Kentucky, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, 
and Arkansaw Mails, daily. 

The Swiftsure Mail, via Springfield, N. J. and Jenkinton, 
(Penn.) closes every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, at 
2 o'clock, P. M. with the Southern Mail, and arrives Tuesdays, 
Thursdays and Saturdays, A. M. 

The Northern Mail, (via Hudson, N. Y.) is closed every 



320 POST DAYS AT NEW-YORK. 

Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, at 8 o'clock, A. M. and 
arrives, every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday, in the after- 
noon. Steam Boat Mails close one hour and a half before the 
departure of the boats. 

The Western Mail to Albany, (via Hackensack, N.J. Go- 
shen and Kingston, N. Y.) is closed every Monday, Wednes- 
day and Friday, at 11 o'clock, A. M. and arrives every Sun- 
day, Wednesday and Friday, in the afternoon. 

The Western Mail, via Wardsbi idge, Bloomingburg, &c. to 
Geneva, closes on the same hour with the steamboat Mail for 
Albany, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. In the win- 
ter, it is closed with the Western Mail, via Hackensack, as 
above. 

The Acquackanock and Paterson Mails close daily at 8 A.M. 

The Dover Mails (via Paterson and Dover, N. Y. Ridgfield, 
Conn.) are closed every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 
4 o'clock, P. M. 

Mails for Bloomfield, Caldwell, and Parsipany, Rockaway 
and Rockaway Valley, N.J. will be made up every Monday 
and Friday, at 5 P. M. and will arrive every Tuesday and Sa- 
turday, A. M. 

The Mail for Millston, N. J. will be made up every Tuesday 
and Saturday, with the Southern mail. 

Mails for Bellville, \. J. will be closed every Tuesday, 
Thursday, and Saturday, at 2 o'clock, P. M. and will arrive 
every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, in the afternoon. 

The Mail for Newtown, Suckasunna, Lo.gwood, Augusta, 
and Montrose, N. J. Milford, Dundaff, Clarksville, Montrose, 
Silver Lake, Hopbottom, Penn. and Caroline and Oswego, 
N. Y. will be closed at 4 o'clock, P. M. 

Long Island Mail. — Mails for Brooklyn and Jamaica, will 
be closed every day, (Sunday excepted) at I o'clock, P. M. 
and arrive daily. 

Mails for Flatbush, Hempstead, Jericho, Oyster Bay, Hunt- 
ington, Southampton, Sagharbour, and Easthampton, and the 
intermediate towns in that direction, close Thursdays, at 8 A.M. 
and arrive Wednesdays, A. M. 

Slaten Island Mail for Castleton, N. Y. will be closed every 
Thursday, at 8 o'clock, A. M. and arrive every Wednesday 
in the afternoon, and daily during the summer. 

The Mail through Morristown N.J. to Easton and Wilkes- 
barre, Pa. and most of the towns in that direction, is closed 
every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and arrive in the af- 
ternoon of the same days. 

Letters and Newspapers are delivered out of the Office eve- 



BANKS. 521 

ry day (except Sunday) at all hours, from the rising of the 
sun till 8 o'clock, P. M. and on Sundays, Letters and News- 
papers are delivered from the Office between the hours of 9 
and 10 in the morning, and between 1 and 2 in the afternoon. 

BANKS. 

During the colonial government there was no incorporated 
bank in this state ; but on the 11th of April, 1782, the legisla- 
ture, enacted that the Bank of " North America" should be a body 
politic, and corporate in this state, and prohibited the estab- 
lishment of other banks during the war. This prohibition 
became void on the restoration of peace in the following year; 
and on the 21st of March, 1791, the "Bank of Neiv-York" 
commenced business as a corporate body. Since that period ; 
these establishments have gradually multiplied throughout the 
state, until every village of respectable magnitude is now sup- 
plied with a similar institution. The following is a list of 
Banks now doing business in the city of New- York. 

Branch Ban k of the United States — 15 Wall-street. Charter- 
ed March 3, 1816, to endure 20 years. Capital of the parent 
bank, §35,000,000; New- York Branch, employs $2,500 000. 
Shares 100 dols. each United States holds 70,000 shares 
being 7,000,000 dollars in 5 per cent, stock. Individual sub- 
scription 280,000 dols. Shares equal to 28,000,000 dollars. 
The president of this Bank is ex-officio Loan officer of the 
United States for the State of New-York. First Clerk in the 
Loan Office is Wm. Ovington. Discount days Wednesdays 
and Saturdays. Dividends 1st of January and July. Election 
in November. 

Bank of New-York — 32 Wall-street. Incorporated March 
1791 — to endure until the 2d. Tuesday in May, 1811. Char- 
ter was renewed until 2d. Tuesday in May, 1832. Capital 
$1,000,000 Election 2d. Tuesday in May. 500 dollars 
each share. Discount days, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Divi- 
dends 1st of May and November. 

Manhattan Bank — 23 Wall-street. Incorporated in 1799* 
Charter unlimited. Capi il $2,050,000. Election 1st Tues- 
day in December. 50 dollars each share. Discount days 
Mondays and Thmsdays. Dividends tenth of July and tenth 
of January. 

Merchants' Bank — 25 Wall-street. Instituted in 1803. 
Incorporated in 1805, to endure until the 'st Tuesday in June, 
1832. Capital $1,490,000. Election 1st Tuesday in Junel 



222 BANKS. 

50 dollars each share. Discount days, Wednesdays and 
Fridays. Dividends first of June and first of December. 

Mechanics' Bank — 16 Wall-street. Incorporated 23d of 
March, 1810, with a capital of $1,500,000 — In 1811, increas- 
ed capital to 2,000,000 dollars. To endure until the 2d Tues- 
day of April, 1832. Election 1st Tuesday in April. 25 dol- 
lars each share. Discount days, Wednesdays and Saturdays. 
Dividends first of February and first of August. 

Union Bank — 17 Wall-street. Incorporated March 1811. 
To endure until 1331. Capital $1,000,000. Election first 
Monday in March. 50 dollars each share. Discount days, 
Mondays and Thursdays. Dividends 1st of May and 1st 
November. 

Bank of America — 30 Wall-street. Chartered in 1 8 12, for 
20 years. Capital $2,000,000. Election first Monday in 
May. 100 dollars each share. Discount days, Tuesdays 
and Fridays. Dividends first of January and first of July. 

City Bank — 38 Wall-street, incorporated in 1812, for 20 
years. Capital $1,250,000. Officers elected 1st Tuesday in 
June. 50 dollars each sh *re. Discount days, Mondays and 
Thursdays. Dividends firs* of May and first of November. 

Phcenix Bank— 24 Wall-street. Charter dated 15th June, 
1812, for 20 years. Capital §500,000. Officers elected 1st 
Tuesday in Ju y. 25 dollars each share. Discount days, Wed- 
nesdays and Saturdays. Dividends 1st of January and 1st of 

July. 

Franklin Bank — 1 Franklin square. Incorporated in 1818. 
Capital $500,000. 50 dollars each share. Election 1st Mon- 
day in June. Discounts Tuesday and Saturday. Dividends 
paid 12th August, and 12th of February. 

Vorth River Bank — 186 Greenwich-street. Incorporated 
16th February, I 821. Charter to continue 21 years. Elec- 
tion 1st Monday in June. Dividends January and July. Capi- 
tal $500,000. Shares 50 dollars each. Discounts by the 
Board, Tuesday and Friday. Ditto by the committee every 
day. 

Tradesmen's Bank — 177 Chatham-street. Incorporated in 
1823 for 10 years, with a capital of $600,000 ; shares 50 
dollars each. Election first of July Discount days Tues- 
days and Fridays. Dividends 1st uly and January. 

Chemical Bank — 216 Broadway, opposite St. Paul's. In- 
corporated April 1, 1824, for 21 years. Capital $500,000. 
Shares 25 dollars. Election 1st Monday of April. Discounts 
Wednesdays and Saturdays. 



BANKS. 323 

Fulfon Bank — Corner Fulton and Pearl-sts. Incorporated 
April 1, 1824, to continue 20 years. Capital $500,000, 
with a right to increase to 1,000,000. Shares 100 dollars 
each. Election last Tuesday in March. Discount days Wed- 
nesdays and Saturdays. Dividends 8th May and November. 

hong Island Bank — 7 Front-street, Brooklyn, incorpo- 
rated April 1, 1824. Capital $300,000. Shares 50 dollars 
each. Discounts Wednesdays and Saturdays. Election in 
June. Dividends 1st August and 1st of Fe ruary. 

Delaware and Hudson Canal Company — 13 Wall-street. 
Chartered in 1825, for the purpose of making a Canal from 
the Hudson to the Delaware river, with banking privileges. 
Capital $1,000,000, 500,000 to be employed in banking. 
Shares 100 dollars. Election 2d Tuesday of March. Dis- 
count days Wednesdays and Saturdays. 

New-York Dry Dock Company — Banking House corner of 
Avenue D. and lOth-street, office 4 Wall-street. Incorporated 
12th April, 1825, perpetually. Capital $700,000; with 
banking privileges. Shares 50 dollars. Discount days Wed- 
nesdays and Saturdays. Election 2d Monday in January. 

Neiv-York Bank for Savings — Office No. 23 Chamber-st. 
Office hours on Monday afternoons, from 4 to 6, and Saturday 
afternoons, from 4 to 7, and on Quarter Days from 11 to 1 
o'clock, 

Morris Canal and Banking Company — Jersey City and 30 
Wall-street. Incorporated in 1824, for 150 years, with bank- 
ing privileges 31 years, Capital $2,000,000 ; half of which 
employed in banking. Shares 200 dollars. Election 1st 
Monday in April. 

RULES OBSERVED AT THE BANKS IN THIS CITY. 

The Banks are open every day in the year, from ten to three 
m the afternoon, except Sundays, Christmas-Day, New- Years 
Day, the 4th of July, and General Holy Days appointed by 
legal authority, and the Bank of New- York, Good Friday. 

The rate of discount is fixed at Six per centum per annum. 
Three days of Grace will be allowed, and the discount taken 
for the same. 

Every Bill or Note offered for discount, must be delivered 
into the office, on the day preceding the day of discount, inclosed 
in a sealed cover, directed to the Cashier, advising the name 
of the person upon whose account it is offered, &c. 

Bills or notes lodged at the banks for collection, are collect- 



324? INSURANCE COMPANIES. 

ed free of expense, except when protested from non-paymeo 
— the person lodging the same pays the charge of protest. 

Deposites of money, or notes for collection, must be enter- 
ed in the dealer's book, at the time such deposite is made. 

The Presidents of the several Banks and Insurance Com- 
panies are included among the Directors of their respective 
institutions. 

Gold Coins of France, Great Britain, and Spain, are re- 
ceived and paid at the banks, at the following rates, accord- 
ing to an act of Congress, passed April 29th, 1816, viz: — 
France, 87* cents the pennyweight. Great Britain, 88| 
cents do. Spain, 84 cents do. 

Silver Coins are received at the Banks as follows : — 1 crown, 
109 cents; 1 dollar, 100 cents; five francs, 93 q^ cents; — 
pistareen 18 cents. 

MARINE INSURANCE COMPANIES. 

Neio-York Insurance Company — 34 Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated April 2d. 1798. Capital $500,000. 50 dollars per 
share. Offices elected 2d. Monday in January. Dividends 
first Monday in January and July. 

Ocean Insurance Company — 45 Wall-street. Incorporated 
March 20th. 1810, with a capital of $350,000. 35 dollars 
per share. Officers elected 2d. Monday in January. Divi- 
dends 1st Monday in January and July. 

American Insurance Company — 51 Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated March 1st 1815. Capital §500,000. 50 dollars per 
share. Election 2d. Tuesday in xMay. Dividends 1st of June 
and December. 

National Insurance Company — 52 Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated April 14th. 1815. Capital $500,000. 100 dollars per 
share. Election 2d. Monday in January. Dividends 1st 
Monday in January and July. 

Pacific Insurance Company — 49 Wall-street. Chartere 1 
April 18 l 5, for 20 years. Commenced business, 1817. Capi- 
tal, $500,000. Shares, 50 dollars each. Election 3d. Mon- 
day in January. Dividends first Monday in January and 
July. 

Union Insurance Company. — Marine and Life — Office 56 
Wall-street. Incorporated in 1818, to endure till 1838, with 
the privilege of insuring on lives, for which a part of its capi- 
tal was set apart* and made perpetual. Directors elected 2d. 
Monday in January. Capital $500,000, of which 100,000 



INSURANCE COMPANIES. 325 

is secured on bond and mortgage, and made liable for the busi- 
ness of the Life department only. Shares 50 dollars each. 
Dividends in January and July. 

Atlantic Insurance Company — 47 Wall-street. Charter 
dated February 27th, 1824, to continue till 1845. Capita* 
$500,000. Shares 50 dollars each. Election 2d Monday in 
January. Dividends January and July. 

Mohawk Insurance Company — 55 Wall-street. — For ma- 
rine, lake, canal, and river insurance. Incorporated 
April 3d, 1824, for 20 years. Capital $500,000. Shares. 
20 dollars each. Election 2d Monday in January 

Neptune Insurance ( ompany — 44 Wall-street. Incorpora- 
ted April 14, 1825, to endure till 1846. Capital $250,000. 
Shares 50 dollars each. Election 2d Monday in January, 
Dividends 1st Monday in July and January. 

Niagara Insurance Company — 58 Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated March 26th, 1824. Capital $500,000. Shares 50 dol- 
lars each. Election 2d Monday in January. 

FIRE INSURANCE COMPANIES. 

Mutual Insurance Company — 52 Wall-street. Incorpora- 
ted in 1798 — renewed in 1809, and stands until revoked by 
the Legislature. Capital $500,000. Shares 50 dollars. 
Election first Tuesday in April. Dividends June and De- 
cember. 

Washington Insurance Company — Corner of William and 
John-streets. Instituted, June, 1 801. Incorporated, March, 
1814, for an unlimited time. Capital $500,0000. 50 dol- 
lars per share. Officers elected first Tuesday in April. Divi- 
dends first of February and first of August. 

Eagle Insurance Company — 59 Wall-street. Incorporated 
1806, charter perpetual. Capital $500,000. with privilege 
to increase to 1,000,000. Shares 100 dollars each. Officers elec- 
ted 2d Tuesday in January. Dividends January and July. 

Hope Insurance Company — 54 Wall-s'reet. Incorporated 
April 1810. Capital $300,000. 45 dollars per share. Offi- 
cers elected second Monday In December. New Charter, Janu- 
ary, 1818. Dividends 2d Tuesday in May and November. 

Globe Insurance Company — 27 Wall-street. Incorporated 
in 1814. Capital $1,000,000. 50 dollars each share. Elec- 
tion first Monday in February. Dividends first of June and 
first of December. 

Franklin Fire Insurance Company — 45 Wall-street. Char- 
ter dated 13th March, 1818. Capital $500,000. Election 

Ee 



326 INSURANCE COMPANIES. 

2d Monday in January. Dividends first of January and July. 
Shares 50 dollars. 

Merchants' Insurance Company — 53 Wall-street. Char- 
tered in April, 1818. Capital $500,000. Election last Mon- 
day in January. Shares 100 dollars each. Dividends 15th 
January and July. 

Mercantile Insurance Company — 43 William-street. In- 
corporated April 10th, 1818, for Marine and Life Insurance, 
and granting Annuties, charter to continue until 1840, except 
insurance on lives, which is unlimited. Capital $500,000. 
50 dollars each share. Election 2d Monday in January. Di- 
vidends 2d Tuesday in May and November. 

Mechanics' Insurance Company — Franklin-square, adjoin- 
ing Franklin Bank. Chartered in April, 1819, for 30 years. 
Capital $500,000. Shares 50 dollars each. Election in June. 
Dividends 20th of Ma) and November. 

Manhattan Insurance Company — 26 Wall-street. Charter- 
ed March, 1819, for 30 years. Shares 50 dollars. Election, 
last Monday in March. Dividends first Monday of December 
and June. 

Fulton Insurance Company — 29 Wall-street. Passed 2d 
April, 1819, to endure 30 years. Shares 50 dollars each. 
Election last Monday in January. Dividends payable 1st of 
July and 1st of January. 

Farmer's Fire Insurance and Loan Company — 34 Wall- 
street. Incorporated in 1822, with the privilege of receiving 
trusts and acting as trustees. 10,000 shares of 50 dollars each 
is $500,000. Election first Monday in June. Dividends 
January and July. 

North River Insurance Company — 192 Greenwich-street. 
Incorporated February, 1822, for 15 years. Capital $350- 
000. Dividends March and September. Shares 25 dollars. 
Election last Monday in March. 

Chatham Insurance Company — 5 Chatham-square. Char- 
tered April 16th, 1822, for 15 years. Capital $400,000. 
Shares 50 dollars each. Election first Monday in June. Divi- 
dends declared first August and February. 

Dutchess County insurance Company — 43 William-street. 
Incorporated in 1814; charter renewed and extended in 1822, 
to continue 20 years, for Fire, Inland Navigation, Life, and 
General Insurance, and receives money on deposite, payable 
on demand, with 3 per cent, interest. Capital $200,000. 
Shares 25 dollars each. Election 1st Monday in January. 
Dividends first Monday in July and January. 

Equitable Insurance Company — 36 Fulton-street. Char- 
ered 20th of April, 1823, for 21 years. To insure loss by 



INSURANCE COMPANIES. 327 

lire, as well as loss or injury by robbery committed on furni- 
ture or personal property in houses or stores, while the proprie- 
tors are absent from the city. Capital $300,000. Election 
1st Monday in June. Shares 50 dollars. Dividends declared 
1st of May and November. 

Phoenix Insurance Company — 254 Broadway. Passed 
March 29th, 1823, to endure 21 years. Capital $250,000. 
Shares 50 dollars each. Election last Monday in May. Divi- 
dends first of November and first of May. 

Netc-York Contributions hip — 44 Wall-street, up stairs. 
Chartered April 5th, 1824, to continue 30 years. Capital 
$300,000 ; in shares of 50 dollars each. Election 3d Mon- 
day in January. Dividends declared 1st of May and first of 
November. 

Jefferson Insurance Company — Corner of Pearl and Chat- 
ham streets. Passed March 4th, 1824, for 21 years. Capital 
$250,000. Shares 50 dollars each. Insures against loss or 
damage by fire, and also inland navigation. Election first Mon- 
in February. Dividends 26th of April and October. 

United States' Insurance Company — 288 Pearl-street, cor- 
ner of Beekman. Passed April 1st, 1824, for 21 years. Capi- 
tal $250,000, with liberty to increase to 500,000. Shares 
25 dollars each. Election first Monday in June. Dividends 
June and December. 

JEtna Insurance Company — 214 Broadway, adjoining 
Chemical Bank. Passed March 31, 1823, for 21 years. 
Capital $400,000. Shares 50 dollars each. Dividends paid 
May and November, Election first Monday in June. 

Sun Insurance Company — 34 Wall-street up stairs. Passed 
March 31, 1824, for 21 years. Capital $300,000. Shares 
25 dollars. Election 2d Monday in June. Dividends June 
and December. 

Protection Insurance Company — 49 Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated April 7th, 1824, for 21 years. Capital $400,000. 
Shares 50 dollars each. Election 2d Monday in June. Divi- 
dends declared first of January and July. 

Orange Fire Insurance, Company — 42 Wall-street. Incor- 
porated April 7th, 1819. Capital $400,000. Shares 50 dol- 
lars each. Election 1st Tuesday in September. Dividends 
1st Tuesday in March and September. 

Western Insurance Company of Buffalo. — Office 41 ClifT- 
street, corner of Fulton-street. Passed April 7th, 1817, to 
endure till 1830. Capital $400,000. Shares 50 dollars each. 
Election 2d Tuesday in May. Dividends 2d Tuesday in 
May and November. 



328 INSURANCE COMPANIES. 

Utiea Insurance Company — 63 Wall-street. In addition to 
Fire Insurance, this Company insures bank notes, money, pro- 
duce, steamboats on Western Waters, and inland transporta- 
tion of goods. Capital $500,000. Each share 250 dollars. 
Election 1st Tuesday in July. 

Howard Insurance Company — 4S Wall-street. Incorpora- 
ted March 9th, 1825, for 21 years. Capital $300,000. Shares 
50 dollars each. Election" 1st Monday in December. 

Trader's Insurance Company — 3 i Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated March 9th, 1825, for 21 years. Capital $250,000. 
Shares 25 dollars. Election 2d Monday in May. Dividends 
June and December. 

Tradesmens' Insurance Company — Corner of Chatham- 
square and Oliver-street. Incorporated 14th March, 1825. 
Capital $200,000. Shares 50 dollars. Election 1st Monday 
in May. Dividends 1st of November and May. 

Firemen's Insurance Company — 14 Wall-street. Incorpo- 
rated 19th of April, 1825. Capital $300,000. Shares 25 
dollars. Election 2d Monday in November. Dividends 
September and March. 

Lafayette Fire Insurance Company — 351 Pearl-street. In- 
corporated 14th of April, 1825, for 21 years. Capital 
$20,000. Shares 25 dollars each. Election 2d Tuesday in 
May. Dividends first of January and July. 

Brooklyn Insurance Company — 13 Front-street, Brooklyn. 
Passed April 3d, 1824, to continue 21 years. Shares 25 dol- 
lnrs. Capital $, .0,000. Election 6th of June. Dividends 
1st of May, August, November, and February. 

New-York and Schuylkill Coal Company — Office corner of 
Beaver-lane and Washington-street. \ ncorporated April 1 8th.. 
1823, perpetually. Capital $300,000, with a privilege to in- 
crease to 500,000. Snares 50 dollars each. Election first 
Monday in May. Dividends in January and July. 

New-York Lombard Association — 66 Chatham-street. Pas- 
sed April 8th, 1 824. Charter to continue 30 years, for the 
sole purpose of making deposites on goods and chattels. Capi- 
tal $200,000. Shares 100 dollars. Dividends 1st of July 
and January. Election first Monday in May. 

New-York Loan Company — Corner of Ann-street and 
Broadway. Passed 12th. of April, 1825. Capital $200,000. 
Shares 100 dollars. Election 1st Monday in June. 

Merchants' Exchange Company — Wall-street. Incorpora- 
ted in 1824. Capital $200,000. Shares 100 dollars each. 

New-York High School — Crosby, near Broome-street In- 
corporated April 4th, 1825. Capital $30,000. Shares 25 
dollars. Election 2d Monday in November. 



MANUFACTURES. 329 



MANUFACTURES. 



Although the progress of Manufactures in this city has not 
kept pace with that of trade and commerce, they are sti.l in a 
very flourishing condition. It appears from official documents, 
that, as long ago as the year 1812, at the commencement oj 
our last struggle with Great Britain, there were three Looms 
at work in the city and county of JNew-York, which produced, 
annually, 2540 yards of woollen cloth, and 217 yards of linen. 
By the returns of the marshals employed to take the census of 
1825, it will be seen that this one article of domestic manu- 
facture had increased to one million, one hundred and seventy- 
two thousand, eight hundred and thirty yards, produced in 
one year ! Other factorit s have advanced, in at least an equal 
ratio, and new ones are almost daily springing into existence. 

By a law of the state, passed on the 22d March, 1811, it 
was enacted, that " any five, or more, persons, who shall be 
desirous to form a company for the purpose of manufacturing 
woollen, cotton, or linen goods, or for the purpose of making 
glass, or for the purpose of making from ore, bar-iron, anchors, 
mill-iron, steel, nail-rods, hoop-iron, and iron-mongery, sheet- 
sqpper, sheet-lead, shot white lead and red-lead," might, on fi- 
ling the proper rertiticates, be erected into a corporate bod} 
for the term of twenty years. This privilege was afterwards 
extended to " manufactors of pins, morocco leather, beer, ale, 
or porter, and other useful domestic occupations." In the year 
181 3, another law was passed to incorporate a company "for the 
purpose of disposing of articles solely of American Manufac- 
ture, and to make loans thereon when deposited for sale." 

The following is a list of the most prominent Manufacturing 
Companies of this City ; many of which, it will be seen, have 
been chartered by the Legislature of the state, and all have 
been attended with the most flattering success. 

Eagle Manufacturing Company. — This Company was in- 
corporated April 26, 1813, "for the manufacture of cotton 
woollen, and linen goods," to continue for twenty years from 
the date of their charter. Located at Greenwich. 

North American Coal Company — Incorporated April (3. 
1814, for the purpose of finding coal and other mines and min- 
erals, and supplying the public with the same ; to continue 
until May 1st, 1834. Capital stock $750,000. 

New-York Coal Company. — Incorporated April 6, 1814, 
" for the purpose of exploring and working mines of coal, and 
other valuable minerals, and for delivering at the city of New- 

Ee 2 



330 MANUFACTURES. 

York, coal for fuel, at a reasonable price, from the Ohio Ri- 
ver or from any part of this state, or of the United States. 
wherever good coal may be most advantageously procured. 
Capital $700,000, 52 Wall-street. 

Copper Manufacturing Company. — Incorporated April 9. 
1814, for the purpose of ft carrying on and perfecting the man- 
ufacture of copper and brass, and the construction of large 
copper work in general, in such parts of the state of New-York 
as they shall think most advantageous." Capital $250,000. 

Patent Cloth Company. — Incorporated April 13, 1814, for 
the purpose of " manufacturing of h.iir by itself, or hair mixed 
with any other material, or materials. 7 ' Capital $400,000. 

Patent Oil Company. — Incorporated April 15, 1814, for 
the purpose of " pressing and straining oils, and separating 
fluids from solids, by means of a new and useful machine. 5 * 
To continue until May 1st, 1828. Capital $100,000. 

Mining, Smelting, and Refining Company. — Incorporated 
Feb. 25, 1814, for the purpose of '"digging, mining, smelting, 
and refining gold, silver, lead, and copper ores, and for erect- 
ing a shot tower for the manufacture of shot in the state of New- 
York, and for the purpose of establishing a factory for the ma- 
king red and white lead." Capital $500,000. 

New-Jersey Porcelain and Earthenware Manufacturing 
Company. — Chartered in 1825. Capital $100,000. Shares 
100 dollars each. 

New-York Gas Light Company — Corner of llynder and 
Hester Streets. Incorporated in 1823. Capital $1,000,000. 
Shares 50 doilars. Election 2d. Monday in Janunry. Divi- 
dends 1st Monday in Februar}', May, August and November. 

Brooklyn Gas Light Company. 

Peru Iron Company.- — 32 South-street. 

New-York Laboratory Association — Maiden-lane, corner ol 
Front-st. Incorporated in 1825. For manufacturing White 
and Red Lead, and other Paints. Capital $100,000. Elec- 
tion 2d Monday in April. 

New-York Steel Manufacturing Company — 84 Washington- 
street. 

Steam Saw Mill Association — Corner of Lewis and Fifth 
Streets. Incorporated in 1825. Capital $150,000. Shares 
50 dollars each. Election first Monday in May 

Linen Company . — Incorporated April 18, 1815, for "man 
ufacturing flax, hemp, and other articles of a similar nature, 
into linen." Capital $400,000. 

Sterling Iron Company. — Incorporated April 1, 1814, " for 
the purpose of manufacturing iron and steel." Capital 
$500,000. 






PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 33J 

American Fur Company. — Incorporated Feb. 16, 1805. 

New-York Company for Manufacturing Paints and other 
articles. — Incorporated Feb. 17, 1809- 

New-York Manufacturing Company. — Incorporated June 
15, 1812. 

New-York Slate Company. — Incorporated March 23, 1810. 

New^York Sugar Refining Company . — Incorporated March 
22, 1811. No. 162 Church-street. 

New-York Chemical Manufactory. — Located in Hudson- 
street, corner of Fiizroy-street. 

New-York Dying Printing Establishment. — No. 101 Wil- 
liam-street. 

New-York Schuylkill Coal Company. — No. 37 William-st. 

Chemical Factory. — -Lombard)', corner of Walnut-street. 

Lehigh Coal Company. — No. 15 Wall-street. 

Brooklyn White Lead, Company. — No. 166 Pearl-street. 

New-York Drug Mills. — Mill-street. 

New-York Harlcem Spring Water Company. — No. 14 
Wall-street. 

Rhode Island Coal Company. — No. 42 Wall-street. 

Card Factories. — (Whittemore"s) No. 64 & 67 Cliff-street, 
and 134 Pearl-street. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

Of these, the first which naturally claims attention, is the- 
Temple of Justice, which stands in the Park, and is said to be 
the handsomest structure in the United States ; perhaps (of 
its size) in the world. This chaste and beautiful edifice stands 
near the upper end of the Park, on the highest ground in that 
part of the city ; and is, consequently, seen to considerable 
advantage from almost every quarter. It is denominated the 

CITY HALL. 

The building is of a square form, two stories in height, (in- 
dependent of a basement story) with a wing at each end pro- 
jecting from the front, and in the centre the roof is elevated 
to form an attic story. The whole length of the building is 
216 feet, the breadth 100, and the height 51 feet. Including 
the attic story, it is 65 feet in height. The front and both ends, 
above the basement story, are built of native white marble from 
the marble quarries on the North River ; and the rest of the 
building is constructed of brown free stone. The roof is cov- 



332 PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

ered with copper, and there is a balustrade of marble entirely 
round the top. Rising from the middle of the roof, is a Cu- 
pola, on which is placed a co;ossal figure of justice, holding 
in her right hand, which rests on her forehead, a balance, and 
in her left, a sword pointing to the ground. Justice is not 
blindfold as she is represented in Europe. 

There are four entrances to the building: one in front, one 
in the rear, and one in each end. The front, which is the 
principal, is on the first story, to which there is access by a 
flight of twelve marble steps, rising from which there are six- 
teen columns supporting a portico immediately over the en- 
trance, also composed of marble. Jn the centre of the rear of 
the building, there is a projecting pediment. The entrance in 
this quarter is also on the first story, by a flight of free stone 
steps. The first story including the portico, is of the Ionic, 
the second of the Corinthian, the attic of the Fancy, and the 
Cupola of the Composite orders. 

At the front entrance there are five doors leading into the 
Lobby, the roof of which is supported by twenty square piers 
of marble. To the right and left, there is a gallery stretching 
to both ends of the building, the floor also of marble. 

Three stair cases lead from the first to the second story. 
The principal of these, is in the centre of the geometrical con- 
struction, with marble steps ; the other two are in the gallery, 
one towards each of the ends, of a plain form, and the steps of 
the same materials Round the top of the centre stair-case there 
isa circular gallery, railed in, likewise floored with marble; from 
which ten marble columns ascend to the ceiling, which here 
opens and displays a handsome Dome, ornamented in great 
taste, with stucco, and giving light from the top to the interior 
of the building. Another gallery, runs in the centre from one 
end to the other. 

The entrances at the ends lead to the basement story, through 
the middle of which there is an arched passage or gallery, 
stretching from one end to the other. 

The foundation stone of this noble building was laid on the 
26th Sept. 1803, during the mayoralty of Edward Livingston, 
Esq. and at a time when the yellow fever prevailed in the city. 
It was finished in 1812, and th^ expense, exclusive of the fur- 
niture, amounted to half a million of dollars. 

The City Hall was originally intended for, and is now ap- 
plied to, the use of the Common Council, in their different 
meetings respecting the affairs of the city, and for the judges 
of the courts of law to hold their sittings, as well as for the va- 
rious offices connected with those departments. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 33S 

Next in rank, in point of elegance of architecture and pub- 
lic convenience, is the 

merchant's exchange. * 

This truly noble and extensive edifice is situated in Walf- 
street, below William-street, and extends southward to Gar- 
den-street. The front of the building upon Wall-street, is one 
hundred and fifteen feet long and three stories high above the 
basement, which is considerably elevated, and it is one hun- 
dred and fifty feet deep from Wall-street, running through to 
Garden-street, upon which the front is one hundred and four- 
teen feet long, and also three stories high, including the base- 
ment story, which is one step above the pavement. The Wall- 
street front is the principal one, and is built entirely of white 
marble, fiom the quarries in Westchester. The first and se- 
cond stories comprise hut one order, which is the Ionic, from 
the Temple of Minerva Polias, at Priene, in Ionia. A reces- 
sed portico, of about forty feet width in an eliptical form, has 
been introduced in front, to great advantage, both as it regards 
convenience and appearance. A screen of four stupendous 
columns and two antae, extends across the front of the poriicoj 
nearly in a line with the front of the building. These columns 
are thirty feet high, and three feet four inches in diameter above 
the base — the shaft of each column is composed of a single 
block of marble. The columns support an entablature of about 
six feet in height, upon which rests the attic, or third story — 
making a height of about sixty feet from the ground. Beneath 
and on each side of the portico, is a passage through the base- 
ment story, to the Post Office and Garden -street. 

The principal entrance to the Exchange room, is by a flight 
of nine or ten broad marble steps, twenty-eight or thirty feet 
long, finished with a pedestal at each end. On ascending to 
the portico, three doors open to the vestibule in front, while 
one on either hand opens into Insurance offices — that on the 
right to the Niagara Company, and that on the left to the 
Union. Immediately in the rear of thf 1 former, the office of 
the National Insurance Company is located, and the rooms in 
the rear of the latter are occupied by the editors of the Daily 
Advertiser. Both have doors communicating with the Ex- 
change room. The vestibule is of the Ionic order, after the 
most chaste and finished style, from the little Ionic temple of 

r For the description of this Building-, wc cue indebted to the Editor 
of the commercial Advertiser. 



334 PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

Illyssus — being the most ancient structure known of that order. 
This temple was tolerably entire when the drawing was taken 
some forty years ago, but during the existing Greek revolution 
it has been entirely demolished. 

Advancing through the vestibule, you enter the grand sa- 
loon, or exchange room, which is truly a magnificent apart- 
ment, and furnishes a superb specimen of architectural profi- 
ciency. It is eighty-five feet long, fifty-five wide, and forty- 
five feet high, finished in a single order, the Ionic, after the 
temple of Minerva Polias at Athens. This chaste and elegant 
specimen of the order is exceedingly well adapted for the pur- 
poses designed This spacious and lofty apartment has two 
parallel sides, with semi-circular ends, at the intersection of 
which are an antae, and columns supporting a full sized entab- 
lature, with an arch resting upon the two opposite columns at 
each angle. The arches support a screen which forms the 
terminating line between the vaulted ceiling of the centre, and 
the alcoves at the ends, and divides the whole into three gene- 
ral compartments. The whole of the ceiling is divided into 
pannels — those of the centre being of an oblong square, and 
those of the ends radiating from a centre — thus adding a plea- 
sing variety to the whole. The general effect of this splendid 
apartment is very fine. There is but one opinion upon the 
subject, it strikes the experienced eye of the architect, and 
the unpractised amateur, alike with admiration. The effect 
is the most imposing when viewed from the south-eastern end. 

Passing the exchange room, we enter the apartment appro- 
priated for sales at auction of ships and real estate, the rear of 
which leads to Garden-street. The rooms on the right are oc- 
cupied by the editors of the Statesman, the first as an office, 
and the second as an exchange reading and commercial room, 
and a ship letter-bag office. One of the offices on the left 
is occupied by the editor of the Times ; another by an attor- 
ney and notary ; and the third by the Franklin Insurance 
Company. This apartment itself is 36 feet by 40, with a 
large stair-case on the right from the basement to the second 
story. The ceiling is supported by two columns, approaching 
the Corinthian order, taken from the Tower of the Winds, at 
Athens. They are without bases, and therefore appear sin- 
gular at the first glance, but they are nevertheless strictly co- 
pied from the drawing of the original. These columns are 
painted in imitation of the richly variegated Potomac marble, 
of which those columns, unrivalled for their beauty, are formed, 
which sustain the high-arched ceiling of the hall of the House 
of Representatives in the National Capitol. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 333 

Ascending the stairs, you enter an upper saloon, which is 
appropriated to sales at auction of merchandize by the package. 
On the right of this is a large room taken b; the Board of Bro- 
kers, in which the Chamber of Commerce will hold their sit- 
tings, by permission. This apartment is handsomely furnish- 
ed. The President's seat is elevated above the rest, and the 
table is an oblong with circular ends, covered with fine green 
cloth, and resembling, if we do not misrecollect, the table of 
the Massachusetts senate chamber. The wood work is all of 
handsome mahogany. The walls of this apartment are to be 
hung with portraits of Washington, Hamilton, Clarkson, Bay- 
ard, &c. The Atlantic Insurance Company has taken the 
room on the other side of this upper saloon, and there are two 
other rooms to be occupied as business offices. The back 
room is retained by the Trustees of the Exchange, to be oc- 
cupied as an office for the Company. 

Returning to the vestibule within the Wall-street front, we 
ascend into the saloon of the second story by a broad flight ol 
oval or eliptical stairs, lighted by a circular sky-light from the 
roof. This saloon is finished in a peculiar style of architec- 
ture, which has not before been executed in this country, ex- 
cepting in the hall of the House of Representatives at Wash- 
ington. The design is taken from the Lanthern of Demos- 
thenes, at Athens, and is of the Corinthian order. The de- 
signs of the capitals of these columns a:e very beautiful. Around 
this saloon are entrances into different offices. Ascending again 
by another flight of stairs of the same form, we reach the gallery 
of the third story, in two of the sides of which are entrances into 
different offices. From this gallery we ascend to the cupola, by 
a continuous flight of winding stairs, and thence to the obser- 
vatory of the cupola. The cupola is twenty-four feet in diam- 
eter in the clear, and about sixty feet high from the roof of the 
Exchange to the top of the lanthern which stands upon the su- 
perb dome surmounting the cupola. The observatory is cir- 
cular, and is supported externally by eight Ionic columns, from 
the temple of 111 yssus. 

The view from this elevated dome, is extensive, rich, varied 
and beautiful. We look down upon the lower part of the citv. 
and its ever-bustling streets, like a mechanical panorama, and 
the whole city, with its public edifices easih distinguishable, 
lies as it were at our feet. Extending the vision further, a 
wide and rich prospect is presented, embracing all the diversi- 
fied objects required to complete a landscape, viz: meadows 
and fields, towns, cities and villages, and mountain, wood, and 
water scenery in abundance. To the south the eye glances 



33G PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

at once over our beautiful harbour, its islands, and the adja- 
cent shores, until it reaches beyond the Narrows and Staten 
Island, and rests upon the Highlands of Never^ink. To the 
east we have a fine view of the western part of Long Island, 
including its farm-houses, its forests, its indented shores, and 
the thriving village of Brooklyn. To the west, we have an ex- 
tensive prospect of New-Jersey, including Jersey City, Ber- 
gen, Communipaw and Newark, and all the circumjacent 
country to the top of Newark mountain, from Paterson along 
the whole range to Campbell's mountain — thence along the 
continuation until the ridge is lost in the neighbourhood of 
Boundbrook — one of the head branches of the Rantan. To 
the north, beyond the city, and including Hoboken and Wee- 
hawken, the eye sweeps up the noble Hudson, speckled at all 
times with the white-spreading canvas, as far as Fort Washing- 
ton, and taking in a part of the stupendous pallisadoes. A 
richer prospect can hardly be found — a more varied and beau- 
tiful view of placid scenery no where. Boston boasts that the 
Bay of Naples does not excel her own : what, then, shall we 
say of the harbour of New-York ! 

The spar that runs up from the dome, rather detracts than 
adds to the beauty of the edifice — but we are told that it is 
a necessary appendage to the telegraph, and beauty must there- 
fore yield to convenience. It is surrounded with the figure of 
a Triton, which shows the change of the wind ; and we have 
classical authority for pronouncing it truly appropriate for such 
an edifice. It is copied from the design upon the dome of the 
Tower of the Winds, at Athens, and the figure was of frequent 
use, both at Athens, and in other parts of Greece. The difficulty 
in regard to this design, which injures its appearance, we ap- 
prehend to be, that it is much too small for the magnitude of the 
building. It wants proportion. The original upon the Tem- 
ple of the Winds appears in the plates to excellent advantage. 

On the whole, therefore, we may pronounce the New Ex- 
change Building, an honour and an ornament to our city. It 
is such an edifice as has long been wanted, and the conveni- 
ence of which is already felt. It was commenced on the 1st 
of April, 1825, and will be entirely completed by the 1st of the 
approaching July. 

The plan was wholy that of Mr. M. E. Thompson, the 
Architect, who has superintended the work throughout. The 
design was strictly original, differing in all respects from all 
other plans presented for the consideration of the company. 

The builders were Gideon Tucker and Thomas S. Wood- 
ruff. The Carpenters, Geer and Riley. Kain, Masterton, 
and Smith, Stone Cutters. 



PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 33? 

Nt:\V MASONIC HALL. 

This superb edifice is situated on the east side of Broad 
way, nearly opposite the Hospital. Its style of architecture 
is purely Gothic, without the least mixture of any other or- 
der; copied from the most approved classical models, with 
original appendages, by our celebrated artist, Hugh Reina- 
gle, Esq. 

The corner stone of this building was laid on St. John's 
day, June 24, 1826, by Grand Master Elisha W. King, in 
presence of a large assemblage of the fraternity, and a numer- 
ous concourse of citizens. The building has a front of fifty- 
feet on Broadway, and extends back, towards Elm-street, 
one hundred and twenty-five feet, including the stair-way, 
retiring rooms, office, &c. in the rear. 

The Cellar story, below the level of the street, is divided 
into several apartments, including refectories, offices, and 
kitchens ; extending from front to rear, ninety-five feet, and near- 
ly ten feet in height; with vaults, &c. in front on the street. 

The basement story, (or ground floor, above the street,) is 
near fourteen feet in height, and includes the great entrance 
hall, extending through the centre of the building, ten feet in 
width, and highly enriched with arches, pendants, open 
friths in the spandrils, and a beautiful frieze of raised Gothic 
ornaments. At the further end of the hall, the stairs start to the 
several apartments above. On each side of the hall, are two 
ranges of apartments, with stores in front; and, in the rear, 
places of refreshment for visiters. 

The whole of the second story, (with the exception already 
mentioned, of staircase, &c) is thrown into one Grand Go- 
thic Saloon, ninety feet hi length, forty-seven in breadth, 
and twenty five in height ! This splendid apartment is now 
finishing from the original plans of Mr. Reinagle, the archi- 
tect. The ceiling will be divided into basket or fan arches, 
with pendants of open-work columns supporting the arches 
projecting from the walls, between which are the windows, 
with raised labels, enriched with crotchets, terminating with 
flowers at the points, and supported at the ends with carved 
corbels. 

A Music Gallery extends across the lower end of the room, 
supported by a trussed girder, leaving the floor free of ob- 
structions for public assemblies. The front of the gallery will 
be enriched with Gothic tracery pierced through, and the floor 
supported by elastic springs for dancing; the whole forming 
the most elegant and convenient ball-room in the United States. 

F f 



33$ PUBLIC BUILDINGS. 

Above the Grand Gothic Saloon, in the third story, are 
four Lodge Rooms for Master Masons, while the attic is divi- 
ded into two apartments which are elegantly furnished for 
Royal Arch Chapters. These last are richly decorated with 
clusters of columns, arches and open pannels, with splendid 
draperies; and are, perhaps, the most agreeable apartments of 
the kind on this side the Atlantic. From these lofty Gothic 
windows, the prospect is most extensive and beautiful. The 
whole City, with its unrivalled Bay, adorned with verdant 
islands and white-sailed vessels, with our two majestic rivers, 
and the adjacent country — all lie before you like a panorama 
painting. 

The front of this building, which is of granite stone, is sev- 
enty feet from the street, to the battlements in the centre. The 
pinnacles rise more than ten feet above the roof. The front, 
as well as the interior <>f the building is of the pure Gothic ar- 
chitecture, of the pointed arch style. The doors and windows 
of the basement in front, is the first example of the kind in 
the country. The centre door, at the grand entrance, is of 
solid oak, and recedes four feet in depth, which is the thick- 
ness of the wall. This ponderous frame work of mass}' oak, 
with carved pannels, &c very forcibly reminds one of the des- 
criptions to be met with in many romances, of ancient Abbeys, 
Castles, and other edifices of the Gothic ages. Indeed, there 
is a classical taste, a consistency, a keeping:, (or whatever the 
reader may please to term it) displa^ ed throughout the whole 
of this edifice, that reflects the highest credit on Mr. Reina- 
gle, and proves him to be a master in his profession. 

The Grand Entrance, which is arched in front, is fourteen 
feet and six inches in height, and twelve feet in width, next 
the street ; but at the door, in the recess, is only six feet wide, 
and not quite ten in height. The crocket arch in front as- 
cends to twenty two feet in height, the whole very highly enrich- 
ed with carved ornaments : all in Cast Iron, and executed in 
New-York. The doors and windows, on each side, have cor- 
responding arches, columns, and ornaments, done likewise, in 
cast iron. There are four buttresses, with ni ches and pedes- 
tals — two at the corner, and two midway, extending to the 
roof terminating: in ornamented pinnacles 

The centre window is a splendid specimen of Gothic Archi- 
tecture. It is twenty-two feet in height, and ten feet in width; 
finished (as all the others are) with proper lead lights, diamond 
form. A range of stone battlements terminates the front at 
the roof, while larger battlements surmount the flank walls. 
The dormant windows have open-work battlements. 



PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 339 

We have only room to add, that when this building is com- 
pleted, it will undoubtedly rank among the most perfect spe- 
cimens of pure Gothic architecture, in the United States; as 
the best and most approved examples which have ever been 
publishe for architectural purposes, have been consulted and 
adopted by the tasteful architect. 

The difficulty of piocuring correct descriptions of public 
buildings, will render this department of the work less perfect 
than was at first intended As this defect, however, may be 
partially supplied in the appendix, we will conclude this ar- 
ticle here by giving a catalogue of such edifices as are worthy 
the particular attention of strangers. 

The New-York Arcade, Maiden-Lane. 

The Arcade Bath, Chamber- street 

Churches, &c. several of which have been already noticed 
at page l6l to 182. 

The Prisons, vide pages 187 to 205. And various other 
buiklings of inferior note. 



CHAPTER XIII. 
PUBLIC AiMUSEMENTS. 

THEATRES. 

The City of New-Yo k, from its rapid growth, commercial 
character, and unrivalled prosperity, has justly been called 
the London of America. But it is now high time to change 
the appellation. Th extensive patronage afforded to the lib- 
eral arts, and works of taste ; the unexampled increase of pub- 
lic amusements, with the consequent progress of morals and 
refinement; havp, at length, rendered New- York Me Paris 
of the New World. I /ike that gav and spiendid emporium of 
fashion, taste, and literature, New- York is constantly filled 
with strangers, who are drawn hither by the celebrity of our 
institutions, our commerce, opulence, and multiplied sources 
of rational pleasure. Our fame, in these respects, has gone 
abroad to the remotest corners of the western hemisphere, and 
is rapidly extending through every part of Christendom. 

The earliest theatrical performances, in the recollection of 
our oldest inhabitants, were in a store, on Cruger's wharf, 
near Old-Slip, by a company of Thespians, composed of 
" choice spirits" of a certain orde' In ihe language of the 
Advocate, "thev were roystering young m n, full of tricks 
and mischief;" who used to play cricket in the fields, (where 
Vescy-street now is) and who spent their nights at the boat- 



340 PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 

house, in Wall-street, near where the United States' public- 
stores are now erected. It is probable that no one member oi 
this company ever immortalized himself by his histrionic tal- 
ents, as none of their names have been handed down to the 
present generation. 

About the year 1750, the first regular theatre was built in 
New- York. It was a stone building, in the rear of the Dutch 
Church, in Nassau-street, near Maiden-lane. Mr. Hallam 
was the manager, and had a tolerable good company, which 
lie recruited from the provincial theatres of England. In this 
theatre, says our informant, the sterling English tragedies, 
and comedies were performed. After a time, however, Hallam 
received such flattering invitations from Jamaica, that he was 
induced to take his company thither, and the theatre was pul- 
led down. 

About the year 17Gy, Phil. Miller, then well known in the 
town for a plodding, active, managing man, obtained permis- 
sion of Govenor Colden, to build a theatre, and act plays i 
which he did in Beekman-strpet, a few doors below Nassau- 
street. This was a wooden building, in poor condition, with 
paper scenery, and a wretched wardrobe. The whole was des- 
troyed by a mob created by the stamp-act. Phil. Miller lost his 
house and his company. He was a jocose fellow, and played 
Justice Guttle with great humour. 

Of the state of the Drama, in \ew-York, during the revo- 
lutionary war, while the British had possession of the city, we 
are not informed. Nor can we, at this moment, state the pe- 
riod at which the John-street theatre was erected. If any of 
our readers will favour us with these particulars, we shall 
feel much obliged to them. It was about the period that 
Hallam returned from Jamaica, with his company reinforced 
by several performers of merit, among whom was Henry. The 
John-street theatre was spacious and well arranged, and had 
for the most part an excellent compan} . 

About the vear 1798, a number of gentlemen united, by 
subscription, in the purchase of a lot, and commenced a new 
theatre fronting the Park, between Ann and Beekman-streets. 
Tn this enterprise a considerable sum of money was expen- 
ded ; when, from embarrassments, mortgages, &c. it finally 
came into the hands of Messrs. Beekman and Astor, and was 
called the 

PARK THEATRE. 

This establishment was successively under the management 
of Hodgkinson, Dunlap, Cooper, and, finally, Messrs. Price 
and Simpson. These latter gentlemen, in the summer of 1817; 



PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 341 

fitted up the Circus in Anthony-street, for the performance of 
ballets, &c. (during the recess of the Park theatre,) under the 
direction of Mr. Parker, now ballet-master at Chatham thea- 
tre. In the year 1820, on the morning of the 25th of May, 
the Park theatre was discovered to be on fire, and such was 
the rapidity of the conflagration, that scarcely an article was 
saved, and in a short time nothing remained but the bare and 
empty walls. A splendid and extensive wardrobe, together 
with a most valuable collection of scenery and properties, were 
all involved in one common ruin. The losses of some mem- 
bers of the company were very considerable; among which, 
the most serious was the individual wardrobe and properties 
of Mr. Maywood, which he had brought out with him from 
England but a few months before. 

The house in Anthony-street was now fitted up as a per- 
manent theatre ; and the Park company continued to perform 
there for the remainder of the season. This house stood on 
the spot where Christ Church now stands. 

In the mean time, several months elapsed, before any thing 
was done towards rebuilding the Park theatre. At length, 
however, the enterprising proprietors, Messrs. Beekman and 
Astor, though suffering a severe loss from the calamity, con- 
sented to embark once more in the expensive experiment ; con- 
fiding in the liberality and good taste of our citizens, for that 
protection and support in the anticipation of which they have 
not been disappointed. The new house was finished in 
August, 1821, and opened, for the season, on the first Mon- 
day of September. The Prize Address was written by Mr. 
Sprngue, of Boston, for which the Managers awarded fifty 
dollars. 

The Park Theatre is eighty feet in front ; fifty five in height, 
and one hundred and sixty-five deep ; comprising three com- 
plete circles of boxes, two side tiers, a spacious gallery, and 
commodious pit. 

CHATHAM THEATRE. 

The rise and progress of this flourishing establishment, 
may be considered as a practical illustration of individual 
taste and enterprise. It is but a few years since the idea of 
two theatres being supported in this city,, was treated as 
visionary and chimerical. Chatham Garden, was then a plea- 
sant resort for both sexes, on a summer evening, to unbend 
the mind and refresh the body, after the fatigue of the day. 
To render the place more attractive, the tasteful proprietor 

Ff 2 



342 PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 

(the late Mr. Barrere, a Fienchman) engaged a small band of 
music, and occasionally a few male amateurs regaled the 
company with some popular songs, from the top of a little 
temple erected over the fountain. This may be termed the 
dawning of the enterprise. The success of these little experi- 
ments, induced the proprietor to erect a small stage atone end of 
the garden, with an orchestre in front, where vocal and ins ru- 
mental music, interspersed with recitations, &c. insured a 
crowded and libera] audience even evening during the sum- 
mer. Much f the intended effect, however, was lost by their 
performances being in the open air, and many a catarrh and 
tooth-ache was the penalty of an hour's enjoyment. To remedy 
these inconveniencies, an awning, or canvass roof, of immense 
dimensions, was spread over the Garden, from the prosenium 
of the stage, to the summer-houses by the fountain, beneath 
which, benches were arranged on an inclined plane, like the 
pit of a theatre. A few changes of scenery were also added 
to the stage ; and the performances gradually assumed a more 
dramatic character. The awning soon gave place to a water- 
tight roof, and the summer-houses were fitted up as boxes. 
Here commenced a second era in the history of Chatham Thea- 
tre : it was the morning of its existence. 

Early in the following spring, 1824, Mr. Barrere caused to 
be laid the foundation of the present building, which was com- 
pleted and opened in May, of the same year, comprising two 
tiers of boxes and a pit. It has since been much elevated and 
enlarged, and now comprises three circles of boxes, together 
w' f h a gallery and pit. It is now in the meridian of its ca- 
reer 

LA FAYETTE THEATRE. 

This establishment was opened, for the fust time, on the 
fourth of July, 1825, under the management of Mr. Dinneford, 
The enterprising proprietor, Charles W. Sandford, Esq. fully 
impressed with the importance of uniting equestrian with dra- 
matic amusements, caused it to be furnished with a capacious 
ring, and a more extensive stage, than belongs to any similar 
establishment in the United States. For the representation 
of grand oriental Spectacles, and Equestrian Melodramas; 
the La FayetteTheatreisjustly celebrated, and such has been it? 
uniform success, that the Proprietor has been induced to re- 
build it on a larger scale. It is situated in Laurens-street ? 
near Canal and extends, to Thompson in the rear. Mr. 
Burroughs is the present acting manager. 



* PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 343 

NEW-YORK THKATltE. 

The New-York Theatre, is erected on the site, formerly 
known as the JiuWs Head, then belonging to Henry Astor 
Esq. who associated himself with other Gentlemen, and com- 
menced that elegant Edifice in May, 1826, ant! so completely 
finished it, as to commence performing on the 23d October 
following. 

The interior of the building is finished in a manner supe- 
rior to any thing in this country, and surpassed but by few 
Theatres throughout Europe. 

The manager is Charles Gilfert, Esq. who has evinced great 
ability and enterprise, and an unwearied exertion to cater 
richly for the public, which is strongly evidenced in the 
great talent and novelty that have been produced on the 
boards since the short period of opening the Theatre. The 
public have not been unmindful and afford great patronage. 

BROADWAY CIRCUS. 

This is an old edifice, erected for the purposes of equestrian 
performances, and was for several years owned and managed 
by the celebrated Mr. West. It afterwards passed into the 
hands of Messrs. Price and Simpson, and is at present owned 
by Messrs. Simpson and Cowell, conducted by the latter. 

MOUNT-PITT CIRCUS. 

This is a new establishment, erected by the enterprising 
proprietor of La Fayette Theatre. It is situated in Grand- 
street, directly opposite the upper end of Harman street, or 
East Broadway. From Chatham-square, where the front 
lights of the Circus can be distinctly seen, the course to it is 
due East : the distance not three quarters of a mile. It is 
opened every evening, and can boast the finest stud of horses 
in the United States. The equestrian exercises are succeeded 
by dramatic performances, ballets, farces, songs, &c. Price of 
admittance, 50 cents for Boxes, 25 cents for Pit. 

AMERICAN MUSEUM, IN THE NEW-YORK INSTITUTION. 

This Museum which was founded in 1810, by the late John 
Scudder, is daily open for the reception of company. In the 
evening the whole five halls are brilliantly lighted with gas 
light. Each hall is 100 feet in length, and the whole is fur- 
nished with the greatest and most valuable collection in 
America. 



344 PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 

hate additions. — The Cosmorama Saloon, containing the 
great optical deception of 47 glasses, and producing a display 
of exquisite talent ; the Serpent Doa, (from South America, N - 
measuring 16 feet in lenuth, the largest and most perfect spe- 
cimen ever exhibited in America : together with an interesting 
variety of other rare and curious subjects. 

Admittance 25 cents, Children half price. Yearly tickets 
fr>r a family $10, single ticket $5. 

PEAL'* a MUSEUM, BROADWAY, OPPOSITE THE PARK. 

This Institution, which is open all day as well as the eve- 
ning, contains a valuable collection of Paintings by eminent 
artists, of all ages : one hundred and fifty Portraits of Revo- 
lutionary and other distinguished characters, known by. the 
name of the Delaplaine Gallery of American Worthies ; be- 
sides a very rare and extensive collection of Natural Histor}- 
in all branches, as well as miscellaneous curiosities from all 
parts of the world ; a set of Cosmorama Views, &c. The Ter- 
race of this establishment affords a most delightful prospect oi 
the city and surrounding country. 

Admittance at all times 25 cents, children half price. Pro- 
files cut and framed as usual. 



CHATHAM MUSEUM, IN THE NEW-YORK SPECTACULUM 
CHATHAM-STREET. 



This Museum was lately established by the son of the late 
John Scudder, a young gentleman who inherits no small por- 
tion of that taste, enterprise, and enthusiasm, which so emi- 
nently characterised his parent. 

This Museum is open every day, and the three Halls are 
brilliantly lit with gas in the evening. The Chatham Museum 
contains a collection of natural and artificial Curiosities, of 
every description ; a large and extensive collection of Wax 
Figures; a Grand Cosmorama of 48 glasses; a Mechanical 
Panorama; a Gallery of Paintings, with an endless grove, 
and an infinite variety of entertaining and pleasing subjects. 

Some favourite airs are given nightly on the Finger Organ 
and Piano. Visiters weighed, measured, and electrified. 

Admittance 25 cents, children half price. 

ROTUNDA. 

Among the public places of fashionable amusement, which 
are permanently established in this city, there are few more 



PUBLIC AMUSEMENTS. 845 

attractive to the lovers of the Fine Arts, than the Neui-York 
Rotunda. This edifice, which was erected, by subscription, 
in the Summer of 1 8 1 8, stands on the East corner of the Park ^ 
with the entrance to Chamber-street, opposite the Manhattan 
Reservoir. It is of a circular form, surmounted by a dome, 
through the centre of which the interior is lighted The Pan- 
oramic Paintings which have been alread) exhibited in this 
elegant gallery, have given great and universal satisfaction. 

The one now open, is a Panorama of Ancient Athens. 
This immense picture is to be seen every day, from the hours 
of nine, A. M till four, P. M. In addition to the high inter- 
est which this picture excites in the mind of every classic rea- 
der, from its historical associations, the recent occurrences 
and battles which have taken place in its immediate vicinity, 
render it still more worthy of general attention. The in- 
habitants of Athens, alarmed on hearing of the entrance of 
the Seraskier into Thebes, fled from the city, and took refuge, 
as in years past, in the Island of Salamis ; this Island is seen 
in the picture — and the Museum Hill, which some Greek 
troops occupied, under the protection of the cannon of the 
Acropolis, on the approach of the Turks, forms the very fore- 
ground of the picture. Also, the Panxhill, on which the Turks 
have erected a battery to bombard the Acropolis, is seen, near 
this ; the ancient port of Athens, (Pireus,) where the Greeks 
landed, and their ways through the plain and olive grove, to^ 
wards the Turkish Camp, which was established near the site 
of the ancient Academy, are here in full view ; as also the road 
of Eleusis, (called sacred) by which a body of Greeks, under 
Caracscaiki arrived, is also distinctly seen. In fine, the pic- 
ture embraces a wide view of all Attica, as well as Athens, 
with its neighbouring seas, on which the eye of the commor 
reader, as well as the scholar, may dwell with delight 

Admittance, 25 cents. 

Besides the public amusements already enumerated, sev^ 
eral others are worthy the notice of strangers ; particularly 
Castle Garden, Vauxhall Garden, and the East River Gar- 
den ; besides numerous other public gardens of lesser note, 
which are scattered thougliout the city, and afTo d a cool and 
pleasant retreat for refreshment after the neise, heat, and dust, 
of a summer's day. 

But of all amusements enjoyed by the citizens of this highly 
favoured metropolis, the most agreeable and exhilirating,, 
(thanks to the immortal Fulton,) are equatic excursions. In 
fact a journey, that was deemed a formidabie undertaking, has 
now become a luxury, and one too that (from its cheapness) 
can be frequently enjoyed by the least wealthy of oar citizens^ 



o40 APPENDIX. 

The facilities which are now furnished to travellers, whether 
on pleasure or business, by the establishment of steamboat 
transportation, and ferry companies, are almost incredible. 
Add o these the numerous and elegant Hotels which adorn 
our city, and which m many instances can vie with some of 
the palaces of Europe, and the distant reader may form a 
faint idea of the increasing prosperity of the city of New-York. 

PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 

To those who may be solicitous of possessing more ample 
knowledge concerning New-York, and other matters in rela- 
tion to the progress of earning and improvement, the follow- 
ing notice of the periodical literature of this city may not be 
uninteresting. 

The first newspaper printed in New. York was the New- 
York Gazette, edited by William Bradford. It appeared, 
October, 1725 At present the city of New-York issues 
daily, the New-York Gazette, the Commercial Advertiser, 
the Mercantile Advertiser, the New-York Evening Post, the 
New-York Daily Advertiser, the National Advocate, the 
New- York American, the New-York Enquirer, the New-York 
Statesman, the Times, the Morning Chronicle, and Morning 
Courier. Total, I. — Several of the offices of these papers 
publish semi-weekly papers, of extensive circulation. — The 
weekly papers are the New-York Observer, the Christian 
Advocate, the Telescope, the New- York Spy, the New York 
Mirror, the Saturday Evening Gazette, the Age, the Truth 
Teller, &c. 

The first regularly published Magazine, was entitled the 
New-Y"ork Magazine, commenced about 1790, and printed 
by T & J. Swords: it wa continued several years: it was 
afterwards converted into the American Magazine and Re- 
view, and finally into the American Review. Carpenter's 
United States Register and Review. — New-York Medical Re- 
pository, projected by Drs Mitchill, Miller and Smith, in 
L7[)7- — The New- York Medical and Philosophical Journal 
and Review, in 1809- — The American Medical and Philoso- 
phical Re ist*>r, by Drs. osack and Francis, 1810. — The 
Monthly Recorder, by W. Dunlap, 1813 — The American 
Monthly Magazine, by Bigelow and Holley, "817. — The 
Churchman's Magazine; the Christian Journal. — The Belles 
Lettre. Repository 1819- — The Literary and Scientific Re- 
pository, 1820. The New York Medical and Physical Jour- 
nal, projected by Drs Francis, Dyckman and Beck, 1822. — 
The Atlantic Magazine, 1824. — The New- York Review, 
1825. 



The lamented death of Mr. Hardik, the projector ana 
author of this work, (who only lived to complete it as fai as 
the 276th page,) has necessarily rendered it less perfect than it 
would have been, had his existence been lengthened by only 
a few short months. It will be proper, therefore, in this place 
to notice such discrepances, and correct such errors, as have 
originated in the peculiar circumstances under which this vol- 
ume has been constructed. It was commenced in August, 
1 825, and put to press as fast as the copy could be prepared. On 
the death of the author, its progress was oi course suspended, 
until another hand could be found capable of filling up the 
outlines he had left. This task was at length, very reluctant- 
ly undertaken, by one who feels and confesses his inability to do 
it justice; but who hopes that the integrity of his motive will 
be accepted as an apology for his failure Under such an im- 
pression he will proceed to note a few incidents connected with 
the historical part of this work. 

In a note, page 82, the author observes that the two first of 
these venerable patriots [Jefferson and Adams] have been 
presidents of the United Stales, '* and arc stiil living/ 7 This 
assertion was true, at the time the first part of this work was 
printed, but the wonderful coincidence of their subsequent de- 
cease, on the fourth of July, 1826, is recorded in the annals 
of our national history, and deeply impressed on the living 
tablets of human hearts. The circumstances are familiar to 
all. 

On the morning of that glorious anniversary, three only of 
the sages who had signed the declaration of our Independence, 
remained on the stage of human action. They had lived 
(says an elegant writer) to witness the greatest changes the 
earth ever knew; and from the wretched, ha assed-down, bro- 
ken hearted little band of bleeding patriots, whose inevitable 
destiny appeared to die gloriously, like Leonirias with his 
Spartans, they had beheld their country magnified into a great- 
ness that was felt in the remotest parts of the earth. It was 
enough. Their eyes was blessed. They had looked forward 
to that day with prayer and impatience. " \ et us but breathe 
the sacred air of that day," they said, " and then, God of Na- 
ture, take us to thyself" The guardian angels of the good 
wafted the petition to the throne of heaven, and all the beings 
of earth, ocean, and air, smiled upon \\\e>* as they passed. It 
seemed that the universe paused in anxiety to behold the fate 



348 APPENDIX. 

of the mission — the success of which darted a gleam of Joy 
through myriads. The two have reached the gratification 
of their souls' dearest wish; and as they joyfully travelled 
the gloomy abyss of death, it was irradiated with a gleam of 
glory. 

Language is scarcely capable of expressing the feelings 
which must have contributed to the dissolution of these two 
celebrated men. It is one of those singular coincidences which 
will sometimes occur to strengthen the opinions of the wildest 
enthusiast, and inflame the imagination of the young and ar- 
dent. The sceptic is unconsciously lulled into a moment of 
transitory inspiration. The philosopher, flinging down his 
book of rules and figures, allows himself to be born away in 
the gentle current of feeling and of faith : and the devotee hails 
it as a direct interposition of Providence, with all the hallow- 
ed delight with which the doubtful lover treasures the few 
sweet smiles which his mistres has bestowed. 

Great respect has been paid to their memories. We are 
glad of it. The nation should mourn, and our children should 
be taught how much virtue and talents like theirs is and ought 
to be admired. The solemnities of a pompous funeral service 
on such an occasion, is sometimes bitterly criticised by the 
great thinker who has not thought the right way. He coldly 
wonders why such parade should celebrate the departure of 
two old men who have been enabled to serve their country ? 
But the more liberal, perce ve the effect which this has upon 
the nation. Feeling of this kind should be kept alive. It 
forms an air in which meanness and cowardice cannot exist. 
The youthful mind, from the enchantments of processions, mu- 
sic, statues, pictures, and orations, receives a tinge of enthu- 
siasm which ornaments while it purifies the character. It is 
naturally led to a consideration of the virtues of those to cele- 
brate whose memories is spread out all this splendid pageantry, 
and from the inherent desire of praise and love of virtue, it 
adopts them as models of virtue, to be remembered in the cold- 
ness of age with something of youth's fervour, and to be imi- 
tated when the original actor has been long quiet in his grave. 

At page 143, in describing the famous Canal Celebra- 
tion, the author has referred the reader to this place for the 
copy of an ode, written for that occasion ; printed on a move- 
able press, and distributed to the populace, as it passed along 
'he streets in the splendid procession before described. 



ODE 

FOR THE 



"WRITTEN AT THE REQUEST OF THE PRINTERS OF 

NEW-YORK : 

By Mr. SAMUEL WOODWORTH, Printef 



; Tis done! 'tis done ! — The mighty chain 
Which joins bright Erie to the Main, 
For ages, shall perpetuate 
The glory of our native State. 

*Tis done ! — Proud Art o'er Nature has prevailed ! 

Genius and Perseverance has succeeded ! 
Though selfish Prejudice assailed. 

And honest Prudence pleaded. 

'Tis done ! — The monarch of the briny tide, 

Whose giant arm encircles earth, 
To virgin Erie is allied, 

A bright-eyed nymph of mountain birth. 

To-day, the Sire of Ocean takes 

A sylvan maiden to his arms, 
The Goddess of the crystal lakes, 

In all her native charms ! 

She comes ! attended by a sparkling train j 
The Naiads of the West her nuptials grace ; 

She meets the sceptred father of the main, 

And in his heaving bosom hides her virgin face. 

Rising from their watery cells, 

Tritons sport upon the tide, 
And gaily blow their trumpet shells-., 

in honor of the bride. 
Sea-nymphs leave their coral caves, 
Deep beneath the ocean waves, 
Where they string, with tasteful care t > 
Pearls upon the sea-green hair. 



850 APPENDIX. 

Thetis' virgin train advances, 
Mingling in the bridal dances, 
Jove, himself, with raptured eye, 
Throws his forked thunders by, 

And bids Apollo seize his golden lyre, 
A strain of joy to wake ; 

While Fame Proclaims that Ocean's Sire 
Is wedded to the goddess of the Lake. 
The smiling god of songs obeys, 
And heaven re-echos with his sounding lays. 

" All hail to the Art which unshackles the soul ! 
And fires it with love of glory ! 
And causes the victor, who reaches the goal, 
To live in deathless story ! 

• : Which teaches young Genius to rise from earth. 
On Fancy's airy pinion, 
To assert the claims of its heavenly birth, 
And seize on its blest dominion. 

" The Art which the banner of Truth unfurl'd, 
When darkness veil'd each nation, 
And prompted Columbus to seek a new world 
On the unexplored map of creation. 

;: Which lighted the path of the pilgrim band. 
Who braved the storms of Ocean, 
To seek, in a wild and distant land, 
The freedom of pure devotion. 

" Which kindled, on Freedom's shrine, a flame 
That will glow through future ages, 
And cover with glory and endless fame 
Columbia's immortal sages. 

" The Art which enabled her Franklin to prove. 
And solve, each mystic wonder ! 
To arrest the forked shafts of Jove, 
And play with his bolts of thunder. 

" The Art, which enables her sons to aspire, 
Beyond all the Wonders in story ; 
For an unshackled Press. is the pillar of fire, 
Which lights^them to Freedom and Glory. 

« 'Tis this which call'd forth the immortal decree. 
And gave the great work its first motion ; 



APPENDIX. 






-Tis done ! by the hands of the brave and tree, 
And Erie is link'd to the Ocean. 

" Then hail to the Art which unshackles the soul. 
And fires it with love of glory, 
And causes the victor who reaches the goal, 
To live in deathless story." 

Such strains — if earthly strains maybe 

Compared to his who tunes a heavenly lyre — 

Are warbled by the bright-haired deity, 
While list'ning orbs admire. 

Such strains shall unborn millions yet awake, 
While, with her golden trumpet smiling Fame 

Proclaims the union of the Main and Lake, 

And on her scroll emblazons Clinton's name. 

The foregoing ode was printed on a moveable stage, on 
the 4th day of November, 1825, during the Procession in hon- 
our of the completion of the Grand Western Canal. 



Since the author's enumeration of adjacent villages, page 
146, that of Yorkville, on Harlem Commons, has been ad- 
ded to the number, and is in a v^ry flourishing condition. 

By reference to page 148, it will be seen, that an error has 
occurred respecting the freezing of our rivers. In the winter 
of 1819-20, the Hudson was, for several days, passable on 
the ice, from this city to New Jersey : and even booths for re- 
freshments were erected on the middle of the river. 

Since the printing of page 163, the African Church in Elm- 
street, has been purchased by the Jews, converted to a Syna- 
gogue, and fitted up in a very elegant style. 

The Rev. Mr. Shaeffer is no longer pastor of the New Luth- 
eran Church in Walker-street, as stated in page 165. Owing 
to some dissensions in the Church, with the merits of which 
we are totally unacquainted, he withdrew from his charge, 
and was followed by a la:ge proportion of his flock, to whom 
some unknoion individual has made a present of the commo 
dious edifice where they now worship in Orange-street. 



j-j> Appendix. 



MASONIC LODGES. 



The following is a complete list of the Masonic Lodges and 
Royal Arch Chapters, of the city and county of New-York, 
with the times and places of meeting : viz. 

St. John's Lodge No 1. Meet 2d and 4th Thursdays of 
every month, at Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Independent Royal Arch Lodge, No. 2. Meet 2d and 4th. 
Mondays, at Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

St, Andrew's Lodge, No. 7« Meet 2d and 4th Fridays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Hiram Lodge, No. 10. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, at Union 
Hall. 

Holland Lodge, No. 16. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, at Ma- 
sonic Hall, Broadway. 

Howard Lodge, No. 35. Meet 2d and 4th Wednesdays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Trinity Lodge, No. 39. Meet 2d and 4th Mondays, at St. 
John's Hall. 

Phoanix Lodge, No. 40. Meet 2d and 4th Wednesdays, at 
St. John's Hall. 

L ( Union Francaise Lodge, No. 71. Meet 1st and 3d Tues- 
days, at Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Fortitude Lodge, No.S\. Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, at 
the Military Garden, Brooklyn. 

Abram's Lodge, No. 83. Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, at 
St. John's Hall. 

Washington Lodge, No. 84. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Adelphi Lodge, No. 91. Meet 1st and 3d Thursdays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Armour Lodge, No. 100. Meet at Sawpils, Westchester 
County. 

Albion Lodge, No. 107. Meet 2d and 4th Tuesdays, at Ma- 
sonic Hall, Broadway. 

Morton Lodge, No. 108. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, at 
St. John's Hall. 

La Sincerite Lodge No. 122. Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, 
at Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Mount Moriah Lodge, No. 132. Meet 1st and 3d Thurs- 
days, at Union Hall. 

Benevolent Lodge, No. 142. Meet 2d and 4th Tuesdays, 
ai St John's Hall. 

Clinton Lodge, No. 143, Meet 2d and 4th Mondays, at 
Union Hal!. 



APPENDIX. 353 

Mechanic Lodge, No. 153. Meet 2d and 4th Tuesdays, al 
Union Hall. 

New Jerusalem Lodge, No. 158. Meet 1st and 3d Wed- 
nesday, at St. John's Hall. 

Concord Lodge, No. 304. Meet 2d and 4th Mondays, at 
St. John's Hall. 

German Union Lodge, No. 322. Meet 2d and 4th Thurs- 
days, at Union Hall. 

Hohenlinden Lodge, No. 338. Meet 2d and 4th Mondays, 
at the Military Garden, Brooklyn. 

Hibernia Lodge, No. 339. Meet 2d and 4th Wednesdays, 
at St. John's Hall. 

Silent ia Lodge, No. 360. Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

York Lodge, No. 367. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, at St 
John's Hall. 

Neio-York Lodge, No. 3f>8. Meet 2d and 4th Thursdays, 
at Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Manhattan Lodge, No. 370. Meet 1st and 3d Fridays, at 
Union Hall. 

Minerva Lodge, No. 371. Meet 1st and 3d Wednesdays, 
at Masonic Hall, Broadwa}\ 

Lafayette Lodge. No. 373. Meet 2d. and 4th. Thursdays, 
at St. John's Hall. 

Hoffman Lodge, Not 378. Meet 1st and 3d Thursdays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Eastern Star Lodge, 'No. 379. Meet 1st and 3d Thursdays, 
at Eastern Hall, Manhattan Island. 

Franklin Lodge, No. 380. Meet 2d and 4th Fridays, at 
Union Hall. 

Greenwich Lodge, No. 381. Meet 1st and 3d Thursdays, 
corner of Christopher and Hudson-streets, at corner oi Sixth 
Avenue and Fifth-street 

Richmond Lodge, No. 384. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, at 
Masonic Hall, Tomkinsville. 

Mariners' Lodge, No. 3 85. Meet 2d and 4th Wednesdays, 
at Union Hall. 

Bolivar Lodge, No. 386. Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, a; 
Union LI all. 

Montgomery Lodge, No. 387. Meet 2d and 4th Thurs- 
days, at St. John's Hall. 

Tompkin's Lodge No. 388. Meet 1st and 3d Fridays, at 
St. John's Hall. " ' 

Mystic Lodge. No. 389. Meet 1st and 3d Mondajs, al 
St. John's Hall. ' 

Gg 2 



334 APPENDIX. 

Locke Lodge, No. 390. Meet 1st and 3d Fridays, at Ma- 
sonic Hall, Broadway. 

Naval Lodge, No. 391. Meet 2d and 4th Wednesdays, at 
Hunter's Tavern, Brooklyn, near the old Ferry. 

Columbia Lodge, No 392. 

CHAPTERS. 

Ancient Chapter, No. 1. Meets 2d and 4th Mondays, at 
St. John's Hall. 

Phamia Chapter, No. 3. Meets 2d and 4th Tuesdays, at 
.St. John's Hall. 

Jerusalem Chapter, No. 8 

Rising Sun Chapter, No. 1 6. Meet 2d and 4th Thursdays, 
at St. John's Hall. 

Fredonian Chapter, No. 19. Meet 1st and 3d Thursdays, 
at St. John's Hall. 

Eagle Chapter, No. 54. Meet 1st and 3d Mondays, at 
Masonic Hall, Broadway. 

Union Chapter, No. 94. Meet 1st and 3d Tuesdays, af 
St. John's Hall. 

Nassau Chapter,- No. 109. Meet 1st and 3d Fridays, at 
Military Garden, Brooklyn. 

Temple Chapter, No. 125. Meet 1st and 3d Wednesdays. 
at St. John's Hall. 

Greenwich Chapter, No. 128. Meets 2d and 4th Wednes- 
days, at the Corner of Sixth Avenue and Fifth-street. 



Since the printing of Page 230, several new Periodical Pub- 
lications have been commenced in this City ; some of which 
are still in existence, while others have expired for lack of 
patronage. The New-York Mirror and Ladies Literary Ga- 
zette, however, has outlived most of its contemporaries, and 
still bids fair to enjoy a long life and green old age. It is ably 
conducted by G. P. Morris, Esq. and is very liberally patroni- 
zed. Every year, liberal premiums are offered for the best 
written articles, on different subjects; as numerous competi- 
tors enter the lists, whose productions are regularly published 
in the Mirror, its columns are, of course, uncommonly rich. 



& 



Page. 

America, discovery of, ... 1 

Arnold's treachery, .- - 96 

Andre's capture and death, - ibid. 

Adoption of the Federal Constitution, - - 114 

Authors, Printers, Booksellers, &c. - - 230 

American Academy of Fine Arts, - - 244 

Academy of the Arts of Design, - - 246 

Assylum Lunatic, - 259 

Aged Indigent Female Society, - - 287 

Assistance Society, - - > - 289 

Amusements^ Public, - 339 

Bellamont, Lord, Govenor, - 34 

His character and death, - - 36 

Burnet, Govenor, - 41 

His unpopularity, - - » 42 

Succeeded by Montgomerie, - - 43 

Battle of Long Island, - - . , . 80 

British army enter the City, - 84 

Battle of Kingsbridge, 8G 

Burgoyne's surrender, ... 90 

Boundaries of the City, - 145 

Bay, Harbour, &c. ----- 14§ 

Bloomingciale asylum, - 260 

Bellevue Hospital, - 267 

Board of Health, - 269 

Benevolent Institutions, - 286 

Bible Societies, - 295 

Banks, - - - - - 321 

Columbus discovers America, * 10 

Cabot, Sebastian, discovers N. A. - - 14 

Cornbury, Lord, Govenor, 30 

His persecuting spirit, - - 3/ 

Succeeded by Lovelace, - * &§■ 

Canada, Invasion of attempted, - 39 

Cosby, Govenor, 44 

His altercations with the Assembly, - 46 

His death, - ibid. 

Clarke, Lieutenant Govenor, - 46 

Clinton, George, Govenor, 48 

His disagreement with the assembly, 06 

Succeeded by Dclancey, - - 64 



356 INDEX. 

Fagt, 

Columbia College, incorporated under the name of 

King's College, - - - 21 

Congress, first American, - 76 

Constitution for the State, adopted at Kingston, - 89 

Census and description of the City, in 1786. 10b 
Constitution, Federal, adoption of by the different states, 114 

Celebration in consequence, - - 118 

Congress, first under the New Constitution, - 119 

Removed to Philadelphia, - 121 

To Washington, - - - 121 

Canal, the grand, - - - 133 

Celebration, - 138 

City, description of, - - - 145 

Census of 1S2S, - - - 150 

Churches, and places of Worship, - - l6l 

Circulating Libraries, - 228 

City Hospital, - - ... 256 

Dispensary, - - - 263 

College of Physicians and Surgeons, - 275 

Rutgers Medical College, - - 280 

Charitable Insiitutions, - 286 

Cincinnati Society, - • . 202 

Common council, - - - - 301 

Courts, .---- 303 

Commerce, Trade, &c. - 30b 

Commercial Establishments, - 309 

Custom House, ... - 310 

Commissions, rates of - - - 316 

Chamber of Commerce, - 318 

City-Hall, - - - - - 331 

Discovery of America, - 10 

Dark Day, remarkable, 94 

Doctor's Mob, - - - - 115 

Description of the City, in 1783, - - 109 

in 1826, - - - 145 

Dispensary, city, - 263 

Deaf and Dumb Institution, - - 290 

Evacuation of New-York, by the British, - - 106 

Eye Infirmary, - 273 

Exports, table of - 309 

Fletcher, Govenor, - 32 

■ His unpopularity, and recall, - - 34 

French War, - 39 

Ferfe William Henry surrendered, - - 66 



INDEX. 357 

Page, 
I ire, dreadful, N. York, after being entered by tbe British 85 

Fort Washington taken, 86 

Flag-staff, at the Battery, anecdote respecting, 107 

Federal Constitution, - - -114 

Fayette's arrival, - - - - 133 

Fortifications of New-York, - - J 46 

Female Association, - 287 

Assistance Societies, - 288 

Fire Department, - 305 

Fund, - - 294 

Fees of office, in the Customs, - - 311 

Fire Insurance Companies,. - 325 

Gazette, first paper in America, - 44 
General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen, - 226 

German Society, - 292 

Government of the City, - 301 

Hudson, discovers New- York, &c, ~ - 14 

Hunter, Govenor, 39 

Succeeded by Burnet, - - 41 

Hardy, Sir Charles, Govenor, 65 

Hamilton, Gen. Alexander, his death, - 127 

Harbour of New-York, - 148 

High School, . . - , 239 

Historical Society, - 249 

Hospital, the City, - - - 256 

Bellevue, - 267 

Health Department, - . 269 

Hospital, Lying-in, - - „ , 284 

Humane Society, - 286 
Harbour Master, .... 313 

Impressment of Seamen prohibited, - 48 

Independence, Declaration of, - - - 82 

Interments, in 1824 — 5, - - - 157 

Institutions, Literary and Scientific, * - 218 

Medical, - 256 

Infirmary, Eye, - 273 

Institutions, Benevolent and Charitable, - 286 

Inspectors, Fees, - - - 313 

Insurance Companies, - 324 

Leisler's revolt and condemnation, • - 28 

Laws of New- York, in 1674, - * 29 

Lovelace, Lord, Govenor, 38 

Succeeded by Ingalsby, - « ibid* 

Liberty-Pole affair, f 4 



358 INDEX. 

"Page. 

Long-Island, Battle of, - 83 

L'Ambuscade and Boston Frigates — a bloody battle, 124 

La Fayette's arrival - - - 133 

Literary and Scientific Institutions, - - 218 

Library, New- York Society, - - 223 

Libraries, Circulating, -.'---- 228 

Lyceum of Natural History, - * 247 

Literary and Philosophical Society, - - 249 

Lunatic Assylum, - - - - 259 

Lying-in Hospital, . - - 284 

Montgomery, Govenor, - 43 



His death, ... 44 

Mob, the Stamp-act, - 71 

Doctors, - • - - - 115 

Moore, Govenor, - - - - 72 

M'Dougal imprisoned, - 75 

Montgomery, General, death of, - - 79 

Markets, in 1826, - - - - 185 

Mechanic's Society, - - - 226 

Medical Institutions, - 256 

Medical Society, - - - 264 

Medico-chirurgical Society, - 284 

Marine Society, - - - 289 

Masonic Societies, (also see Apendix^) - 295 

Masonic Hall, description of, - - 337 

Museums, - - - - - 343 

Missionary Societies, - 299 

Municipal Officers, - - - 308 

Mails, hours of closing, &c. - - 319 

Marine Insurance Companies, - - - 324 

Manufactures, - - - - 329 

Merchants Exchange, - 333 
New Netherlands, now N. York, discovered and settled, 15 

Sur;end to the British, - 19 

New York incorporated, - 22 

Surrendered to the Dutch, - - 23 

Restored to the British, - - ibid. 

Negro Plot, ----- 49 

New-York evacuated by Washington's army, 84 

Invested by the British, 35 

Evacuated by the British, - 106 

Description of, in 1783, - - 109 

> Description of, in 1826, - 145 

• ■ — Society Library, *. 223 

— Historical Society, - <, 249 



INDEX. 359 

Page. 

New-York Horticultural Society, - - 249 

Athvnaeum, - - - 252 

National Academy of the Arts of Design, - 246 

Newspapers, and other periodicals, - 230 

Natural History, Lyceum of, - - - 247 

Peace of 1783, ... - 105 

of 1815, - - - 133 

Population of the City, - - - 151 

Prisons, &c - - - 189 

Periodical Publications, - - - 230 

Literature, - 346 

Public and private Schools, - 233 

Providend Society, - 289 

Pilot's Charitable Society, - - - 290 

Police Department, - 302 

Pilotage, rates of, - - - 315 

Post Office, - - - - 318 

Postage, rates of, - - - - 319 

Post days at New-York, - - ibid. 

Public Buildings, - 331 

Quaker's rights restored, - 46 

Quebec taken by the British, 67 

Raleigh, Sir Walter, named Virginia, - 14 

Representative Government, in New-York, - 24 

Revolutionary War commences, - 78 

Reading Room in the City, - 229 

Rotunda, - 344 

Rutgers' Medical College, - - 280 

Roman Catholic Benevolent Society, . - - 292 

Religious Societies, *> 295 

Rates of Storage, - - - *- 314 

Pilotage, - - - 315 

Commissions, - - * 316 



Postage, - - - - 319 

Slaughter, Govenor of the Province, - - 28 

His death, - 32 

Stage between New-York and Boston, - - 45 

Stamp act Mob, - 71 

Situation and extent of New-York,, - - 145 

Streets, the principal, - • - 147 

A complete list of all, - - 206 

Society, Literary, - 223 

Schools, Public and Private; - - 233 

High School, - 239 



360 JfNDEX. 

Tagi, 

Sailors Snug Harbour, - 289 

Shamrock Friendly Association, - - 291 

Storage, rates of, - - - 214 

Tax on Wigs, - - . 45 

Taxation of the Colonies, ... 67 

Tea thrown overboard at Boston, - 75 

Typographical Society, ... 292 

Tract Societies, - 277 

Trade Commerce, and Manufactures, - 308 

Tares allowed by Law, - - - 312 

By Custom, - ibid. 

Tariff for weighers, - - - 317 

Theatres, - - - - 339 

Villages near the City, - - - 146 

Vaccine Society, - - - 291 

Wigs, Tax on, - - , - 45 

Wolf, General, death of, ' - - -67 

Washington appointed commander in chief, 80 

Washington's farewell to his Officers, - - 108 

War, the late, with England, - - 130 

Wards in the city of New-York, - - 149 

Widows Fund Society, - - - 288 

Watch Department, - - 304 

Wardens of the Port, ... 313 

Weights and Measures, - - - 313 

Weighers, Tariff for, ... 317 

Yellow Fever, in 1702, 36 

•« in 1741—42, . . 52 

in 1793, . > • .123 

... in 1798, r ■ . ' 124 

in 1803, . . .128 

. in 1805. 9 129 



-* — in 1822j . » .13: 



•niE en» 



L m 

J 928 













^ 




,0' 








,f 







Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 
Neutralizing Agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: . 

MAY 







liBaBMEEPER 






<0 






PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGIES, LP. 
1 1 1 Thomson Park Drive 
Cranberry Township. PA 16066 
(724)779-2111 



